Following a £5 million transformation backed by owner Triple B, OMNi is entering a new chapter with ambitions to become Edinburgh’s favourite leisure destination and a hub for connection, entertainment and community. Business Scotland sat down with Neil Mackie, Centre Manager at OMNi, to discuss the investment, the future of leisure destinations and the centre’s vision for Edinburgh.
- Why was now the right time to invest £5 million in OMNi?
- The investment reflects owner Triple B’s long-term commitment to both OMNi and Edinburgh. While the refurbishment has transformed the physical environment, it also marks the start of a wider evolution for the destination.
We want OMNi to be more than somewhere people visit occasionally. Our ambition is to create a place where people come together, meet, spend time and enjoy shared experiences in the heart of the city.
- What improvements will visitors notice?
- Visitors will see significant enhancements throughout the centre, including new flooring, upgraded LED lighting, new seating areas, extensive structural improvements to enhance accessibility, and a more visible main entrance.
The aim is simple: to create a brighter, more welcoming environment where people feel comfortable meeting, relaxing and spending time. These improvements also support the businesses within OMNi by enhancing the overall visitor experience.
- How does OMNi contribute to Edinburgh’s economy?
- OMNi plays an important role within Edinburgh’s leisure and hospitality sector. Home to a diverse mix of entertainment, food, beverage, fitness and hotel brands, the destination attracts millions of visits each year and supports significant city-centre footfall.
As consumer expectations continue to evolve, destinations that combine leisure, hospitality and experience are increasingly important in helping city centres thrive. Our investment is about ensuring OMNi continues to contribute positively to Edinburgh’s economic vitality.
- What does OMNi’s focus on connection and community look like in practice?
- We’re on a mission to entertain, inspire and bring feel-good vibes to the people of Edinburgh and visitors alike. OMNi is a natural meeting point, and we want to lean into this, encouraging people to meet more and enjoy more as part of their Edinburgh city visit. Ultimately, our vision is to become curator of experiences and a place that helps people create memorable moments together.
Community impact is also a key priority. Alongside the refurbishment, OMNi ‘s owner Triple B has committed £180,000 over three years to support the University of Edinburgh’s Access Edinburgh Scholarship programme, helping students from lower-income backgrounds access higher education.
- What’s next for OMNi?
- The refurbishment provides a foundation for the future. We’re developing a programme of events, experiences and partnerships that will bring people together and create new reasons to visit throughout the year.
Ultimately, our ambition is to become Edinburgh’s leading destination for affordable leisure and entertainment, a place that supports local businesses, strengthens community connections and reflects the energy and spirit of the city itself.
“OMNi is on a mission to get Edinburgh to meet more and enjoy more.” – Neil Mackie, OMNi Centre Manager
