Trinity Leeds and White Rose Shopping Centre have wrapped up their annual ‘Made in Yorkshire’ enterprise challenge, giving local students the chance to pitch their vision for the future of retail. The competition saw three schools take part in a ‘Dragons’ Den’-style final, with young people presenting ideas for a brand-new community space in Leeds.
The challenge, now in its second year, invited Year 10 students from Bruntcliffe Academy, Leeds East Academy, Dixons Unity Academy, and Oulton Academy to develop concepts that reimagine how retail spaces can serve local communities. The competition focused on creative placemaking, sustainability, and community impact.
Workshops held earlier this year at Trinity Leeds helped students understand key design aspects, customer insights, and environmental considerations. Teams then used these insights to shape their proposals before presenting them to an expert panel at White Rose Shopping Centre.
The students’ final pitches included concept diagrams, branding, marketing plans, and sustainability strategies, highlighting their fresh perspectives on retail. The challenge not only encouraged creativity but also helped develop real-world skills, from research and problem-solving to public speaking.
This year’s winning team, Green Haven from Bruntcliffe Academy, took home a trophy and will now compete in a national final.
Made in Yorkshire is delivered by Trinity Leeds, White Rose Shopping Centre, parent company Landsec, and Ahead Partnership, with funding from the Landsec Futures Fund. The initiative is part of a wider effort to give young people valuable skills and insights into the evolving retail landscape.
For more information, visit Trinity Leeds and White Rose Shopping Centre.
