PwC to move to new Aberdeen office

PwC in Aberdeen is moving from its Albyn Place base to the newly revamped The Capitol development on the city’s Union Street in a move that the global accountant says reaffirms the company’s commitment to the Granite City and the north-east of Scotland.

The 120-strong team will be based on the top floor of the 12 storey development, with the 10,000 sq. foot space in the former Capital Theatre configured to provide a “flexible yet modern working area, allowing for closer integration of services, as well as a dedicated multi-purpose meeting and client area”.

The Capital Theatre, which was opened in 1933, played host to some of the biggest names in pop and rock from the Beatles to the Rolling Stones and Van Morrison.

With an entrance theme based around the original 1930s theatre, the structure retains a classical feel and welcome while also being fully fitted out for modern requirements.

PwC is expected to relocate in November.

Overseeing the relocation project is Kevin Reynard, PwC’s office senior partner in Aberdeen.

He said: “Against what has been a challenging economic backdrop in recent years, our team has continued to be a strong force for positive business change. This move underlies our strong commitment to Aberdeen and to building our business across the North East in the years ahead.

“For businesses to perform at their best, the infrastructure needs to be there to support them. That’s what The Capitol does and we are delighted to invest in the building in recognition of it being a truly first class working environment.

“Having our teams together on one floor will not only allow us to enhance our flexibility and speed-to-market but our ability to deliver excellent services and advice across all our lines of service from auditing and deals to human resources and cybersecurity.

“But it’s not just about what the move does for our clients and staff. The move – and the opening of The Capitol – will help create a new energy around the business community in Aberdeen which is focusing in and around the west end of the city.

“We are determined to be at the heart of Aberdeen and the North East and The Capital delivers that in terms of accommodation. In addition to this we’ll have a fantastic view of the city from the top floor, giving us quite literally an opportunity to see Aberdeen in a new way.”

The Capitol was designed by architects Clement George and Marshall Mackenzie with the 2100-seater featuring stage shows and movies from February 1933 onwards. From the 1960s it became better known to many as a rock and pop venue before closing its doors in 2008.

The venue has now restored the original art deco doors and has a bright, stylish entrance hall to greet visitors before escalators and lifts take them to the upstairs reception area which is decked out in cherry wood, granite and handcrafted carpets.

James Barrack, Managing Director of Knight Property Group said: “We’re delighted to welcome PwC as the first tenants of The Capitol. This shows the confidence that PwC have in the location and the look and feel of the magnificent building.”

PwC were advised by Savills and Shepherd and Wedderburn with regards to the move and acquisition of new space.