A family-run North East commercial landlord, property developer, business owner with proud roots in the North East of England has unveiled its new brand amid significant investment and business growth.
Kirtley Co., which was started by property investor Henry Kirtley in the 1980’s, is the owner and landlord of the iconic Mackie’s Corner – one of the flagship projects in Sunderland’s ongoing transformation. The firm also owns and operates flexible workspaces in Middlesbrough, industrial and self-storage space in Peterlee, Sunderland, Leechmere, Deptford and Southwick.
As part of the evolution of the business, the firm appointed branding experts We Are Ken to develop a new website, logo and brand which has been part of a six figure investment in the company’s presence and properties across its extensive portfolio. A key part of the investment has been the regeneration of the upper floors of Mackie’s Corner following the successful transformation of the lower floors in 2021.
An eclectic mix of popular local businesses now occupy the space including delicatessen Fat Unicorn, menswear specialists Master Debonair, Bou-chique and The Black Door Hairdressing. Kirtley Co. purchased the property in 2017 with plans to restore the building while maintaining its heritage.
Local businessman Ralph Hutchinson built the Hutchinson’s Buildings in the 1840s, which were a popular shopping destination which boasted some of Sunderland’s first fashion shops. Once a popular meeting-place, the site became known as Mackie’s Corner after hat maker Robert Mackie, whose shop attracted passers-by who had a view of the workers making the extravagant fashion hats of the time.
By the late 20th century, the building sadly fell into disrepair and by the early 2000s was derelict. The Kirtley family had a vision to breathe life into the site by providing a mixed-use development which included retail space and commercial property for SME businesses.
Managing Director Alex Kirtley said; “We’re going through a really exciting time for Kirtley Co., as we continue to be a dynamic business which adapts to the needs of the market and business operators. There’s also been a great deal of regeneration in Sunderland and Tees Valley which we are proud to be playing a part of by offering high quality commercial and industrial space during a time of transformation across both counties.
“We pride ourselves on connecting great people, great businesses and great places using our experience and knowledge in property to advise and support the businesses which create a home in our spaces. We get to know our tenants and their business aims and vision so that we can support them in achieving their goals and create the perfect place to start or grow their business.
“It’s a new era for Kirtley Co., we’ve said goodbye to our last caravan storage customer in order to make room for a new client and redeveloped our spaces. We’ve also invested in a rebrand to reflect this change, with a new website, logo and approach to our marketing.
“We’re delighted to be at the finishing stages of the upper-level commercial space at Mackie’s Corner. Our brand new flexible workspace space will offer 24 hour secure access, lift access, high-speed internet access, period features , stunning décor & breakout spaces in a city centre location. The workspaces range from 90sq. ft. to 5,900 sq. ft. and are perfect for local SME’s.
“We are looking for creative independent businesses who will bring a different experience to Sunderland, including businesses which offer dry décor, wellness studios, bridal-wear, media agencies, and design just to name a few.
“Our priority is to support the region’s economy by being more than just a landlord and providing a supporting role to dozens of businesses which all create jobs for the people who live in our communities.”
For more information on Kirtley Co. please visit www.kirtleyco.uk
