As we mark one year of Liverpool ONE as part of the Landsec retail portfolio, we’re recognising two team members who have been part of the journey since the centre opened in 2008.

Their reflections offer insight into how Liverpool ONE has grown into one of the UK’s leading city centre destinations. And why it’s known for culture, unique experiences, world-leading brands, and playing a central role in Liverpool’s community.

Mac’s reflections on Liverpool ONE’s defining moments

For Paul “Mac” McAndrew, Estate Manager for Liverpool ONE, Eurovision 2023 remains one of the standout moments in the destination’s history: “The entire city felt alive – visitors, entertainment, sunshine, everything aligned. Being right at the heart of it meant we played a major role in helping the event run smoothly. It showed Liverpool at its best and demonstrated why Liverpool ONE is such a powerful city centre hub.”

Other memories are more seasonal, particularly the annual basketball tournaments which have become a popular part of Liverpool ONE’s event calendar. Mac notes: “The basketball tournaments always resonate with me. They look so professional and bring together people of all ages. They give young people something exciting and positive to take part in, and the atmosphere is brilliant every time.”

His career at Liverpool ONE has also been shaped by the people around him. He acknowledges former Estate Director Iain Finlayson for being particularly influential: “I owe a lot to Iain Finlayson. He supported me from my early days working nights through to becoming Estate Manager — always offering advice, always a great sense of humour.”

Mac was keen to highlight the essential contribution of frontline colleagues who represent Liverpool ONE daily: “I have huge respect for our cleaning and security teams. They’re front-facing every day, solving problems, supporting guests and ensuring Liverpool ONE feels safe, clean and welcoming. It’s rewarding coming to work and having those relationships that get things done when they need doing; a mutual respect all round."

Margi’s experiences across 18 years at Liverpool ONE

Margi is a Customer Service Executive for Liverpool ONE and Mitie, and it'd be difficult to find someone with a better knowledge of the retail destination, and Liverpool as a whole.

Some of Margi’s most memorable moments reflect Liverpool ONE’s role in bringing major cultural events into the heart of the city. She recalls Marcus Collins and Gary Barlow performing in 2011: “The atmosphere was incredible. The crowds were huge, and many people were seeing a live performance for the first time. It was special to witness Liverpool ONE bring that excitement to the city.”

She also remembers the arrival of French street theatre company Royal de Luxe  and its mesmerising Sea Odyssey Giants show in 2012: “Seeing the Giant Girl, Uncle, and Xolo close‑up was extraordinary. Liverpool ONE embodied its vibrancy as a place for families from every generation to gather. The excitement was unforgettable.”

Christmas holds a particular significance for her too. “Every Christmas here is magical to be honest. The first year set the tone — lights, performances and surprises everywhere. It brought real festive spirit back into the city centre and when people think about Christmas in Liverpool, they think about Liverpool ONE.”

And then there's the memories that are more personal. Margi’s first encounter with the late Gerald Cavendish, the Duke of Westminster, remains vivid: “The first time he visited the office when I worked as the Management Suite Receptionist, he walked over, leaned on the desk and asked, ‘So, what’s the gossip then?’ He was warm, charming, and completely down‑to‑earth.”

“His role in Liverpool’s growth has been immense. He cared deeply about the city and helped turn previously underused streets into vibrant destinations. He was always personable and genuine too. Having already owned land in the City of Liverpool for over 100 years, the Duke held the Liverpool ONE project close to his heart, which is a lovely thing to remember him by.”

Reflecting on the colleagues who shaped her experience, Margi speaks warmly about the late Project Director, Rod Holmes: “Rod really was instrumental in the transformation of the City, and helped open up Liverpool in ways that changed lives. He was funny, unique, and hugely influential.”

And our current Deputy Centre Director of Liverpool ONE, Donna Howitt, was somebody that Margi was eager to single out: “Donna has been a constant source of creativity and leadership; I’ve worked with Donna for 18 years and she’s never changed! Her dedication and vision shaped Liverpool ONE’s marketing and guest experience from before day one. Her leadership, kindness, generosity and drive make her not only an exceptional person to be around, but a true inspiration to me personally.”