Exeter shopping centre wins national award for putting community first

Exeter’s Guildhall Shopping Centre has received national recognition for its community initiatives, winning the Best Multi-Party Collaboration Award at the IWFM Impact Awards 2025. 

Owned by Exeter City Council and managed by Cushman & Wakefield, Guildhall Exeter was commended for its work to make the city centre a more welcoming, inclusive and sustainable environment for residents and visitors. 

The centre’s award-winning initiatives include the Toddler Garden Play Area, a free soft-play space for children under four, a free water dispenser encouraging sustainability and accessibility and a breastfeeding and nursing space offering a peaceful area for parents. 

Council Leader, CouncillorPhil Bialyk, praised the recognition as a reflection of the centre’s connection with local people. 

Phil stated: “Guildhall is a valued part of the Exeter community and we are proud of the work our teams undertake daily to connect with our community. This award is testament to their efforts and the emphasis placed on community and collaboration.”

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A spokesperson for Guildhall Shopping Centre said the award represents more than just a professional achievement, it reflects a shared commitment to Exeter’s people and values. Speaking to Exeter Today, they said: “Winning the IWFM Impact Award for Best Multi-Party Collaboration is a significant honour for the Guildhall Exeter team.”

“As Centre Manager Ginny Fellows expressed, it reflects the team's pride and dedication in creating a welcoming, inclusive space that genuinely serves the community. The award acknowledges the hard work, creativity, and collaborative spirit of the team, validating their efforts to go beyond traditional retail management and create meaningful social value.” 

The spokesperson added that the projects were designed to meet the needs of Exeter’s residents: “The award-winning initiatives (including the Toddler Garden Play Area, Free Water Dispenser, and Breastfeeding & Nursing Space) clearly demonstrate Guildhall Exeter’s deep-rooted commitment to community wellbeing.”

“These features respond directly to local needs, offering free, inclusive, and family-friendly amenities. The collaboration with Exeter City Council highlights a shared vision to enhance the everyday lives of residents and visitors, making Guildhall not just a shopping destination, but a community-focused public space.”

They also noted that these initiatives have a wider positive impact on the city: “Initiatives like those at Guildhall Exeter have a broader positive impact on the city by promoting social inclusion, sustainability, and community cohesion.”

“They help create more accessible and welcoming urban environments, encourage family participation in city life, and reflect civic pride. Furthermore, such projects set a standard for public-private collaboration in urban development, inspiring similar efforts across Exeter and beyond. Ultimately, they enhance the city’s reputation as a progressive, people-first place to live, work, and visit.”

The IWFM Impact Awards recognise projects and organisations across the UK for their work in facilities and workplace management