Merson Makes a Monumental Mark at Caledonia Park

Merson Makes a Monumental Mark at Caledonia Park

ce 1999 when passing the border of Scotland and England on the M74, it was either the first or last thing you seen. The world’s most iconic brands emblazoned on the side of a building with the words OUTLET written underneath. A haven for bargain hunters with expensive tastes, in 2021 Gretna Gateway underwent a transformation and rebranded to Caledonia Park.
For the past 25 years the site at Caledonian Park has been slowly but surely hidden away by the now vast conifers, originally planted when the outlet was initially built. For years now, the brands have been hidden out of sight and obscured. Not any longer! Last year Merson Group were commissioned by Railpen, to build an eye-catching 13-meter-high directional totem. The answer to ensuring that passing traffic knew it was still there and more relevant than ever. Serving as a striking visual beacon, the new totem boldly captures the attention of today’s consumer in the competitive retail market.

Design & Aesthetics:
The totem is a masterclass in modern design, blending functionality with a monochromatic colour scheme, ensures a clean, contemporary look, allowing each tenant to be clearly represented while maintaining a cohesive overall design. This thoughtful approach to design reflects Merson’s commitment to creating signage solutions that enhance the customer experience.

Visibility & Impact:
Standing at an impressive 13 metres, the totem is designed to be visible from the nearby motorway, effectively attracting passersby and driving foot traffic to Caledonia Park. This strategic placement and height demonstrate Merson’s understanding of the importance of visibility in retail environments, particularly those relying on motorway traffic. The totem acts as a landmark, guiding visitors and reinforcing Caledonia Park’s presence in the region. It’s a prime example of how well-executed signage can serve as a powerful marketing tool.

Manufacturing & Installation:
Merson Group’s expertise extends beyond design to encompass the entire manufacturing and installation process. The Caledonia Park totem is a testament to our commitment to quality and precision. From the selection of durable materials to the meticulous fabrication and seamless installation, we ensure that every project is executed to the highest standards. This dedication to excellence is evident in the finished product, a robust and visually stunning totem that will serve Caledonia Park for years to come.
Despite facing planning issues due to the height of the totem, Railpen -with support from Merson Group- successfully navigated these challenges and won on appeal. Our problem-solving skills and strategic planning ensured that the project proceeded smoothly, demonstrating our ability to overcome obstacles and deliver exceptional results.

Unmatched Retail Park Expertise:
As a leader in signage solutions for retail parks and shopping centres, Merson Group understands the unique challenges and opportunities of this sector. Their extensive experience and deep industry knowledge enable them to deliver tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of each client. The Caledonia Park totem is just one example of Merson’s ability to create impactful signage that enhances the customer experience and helps in driving business success. Whether it’s a site directory, wayfinding system, or a large-scale branding installation, Merson has the expertise to bring your vision to life.

Merson has also delivered standout public realm signage at several high-profile locations across the UK. Caledonia Park reflects the scale and ambition of our work at The Fort Shopping Park in Birmingham, where we engineered and installed an illuminated feature tower standing at over 30 metres tall – a dramatic entrance statement and landmark visible across the local skyline. From MediaCityUK in Salford to Paddington Central in London, we implement modern signage solutions that support brand visibility in busy urban environments.

For retail parks and shopping centres looking to make a lasting impression with signage that truly makes a difference, Merson Group is the partner you can trust. Get in touch at enquiries@mersongroup.com.