Touchwood celebrates 25 years with activities galore

Touchwood celebrated its 25th anniversary with a day of activities, special offers, prizes and fundraising for Acorns Children’s Hospice.

Since opening in 2001, Touchwood has become an established part of Solihull town centre, welcoming millions of visitors and evolving from a traditional shopping centre into a destination bringing together shopping, dining, leisure and experiences.

Seventeen of the retailers that welcomed shoppers when Touchwood first opened remain part of the destination today.

They include Beaverbrooks, Cheshires, Cineworld, Costa Coffee, Ernest Jones, Fraser Hart, Goldsmiths, H&M, JD Sports, John Lewis, L'Occitane, Nando's, Next, O2, Starbucks, The Entertainer and The Perfume Shop.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, Touchwood commissioned local artist Cris Wong to create three exclusive lino carvings inspired by some of the centre's most recognisable architectural features.

Visitors were able to use the carvings to create and print their own artwork, taking home a limited-edition keepsake to mark Touchwood's 25th birthday. Committee members of the Solihull Chamber of Commerce also attended the celebrations.

The popular Touchwood Tornado also returned for the celebrations, giving visitors the chance to win prizes donated by Touchwood and its retailers.

Prizes included Touchwood and John Lewis gift cards, cinema tickets, chocolates, AirPods, a water feature, a Game Guru gift card and a £100 Bravissimo voucher.

Retailers across the centre also got involved, offering a range of birthday promotions throughout the day and across the weekend. Offers included discounts and promotions from Bravissimo, Krispy Kreme, Cineworld, Pop Specs, Mobile Style, Sense Aroma, Lola's Cupcakes, Wendy’s, Cheshire’s and Game Guru.

A limited run of commemorative Touchwood mugs was also made available, with all proceeds donated to Acorns Children's Hospice, Touchwood's Charity of the Year.

Tony Elvin, centre director at Touchwood, said: “Twenty-five years is a fantastic milestone and one we're incredibly proud to be celebrating with the people of Solihull.

“Touchwood has changed and evolved considerably since opening in 2001, but what hasn't changed is its place at the heart of the town and the importance of creating somewhere people genuinely enjoy spending their time.

“The fact that 17 of the businesses that opened their doors with us 25 years ago are still here today is particularly special and says a great deal about the strength of the destination and the relationships that have been built here.