Midlands Arts Centre (MAC) secures investment for exciting new retail project

Midlands Arts Centre (MAC) has secured funding to redevelop its gift shop and retail offer, with its brand-new space launching in March 2026.  

Thanks to the incredible support of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund through the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and a generous private donor, this ambitious project is set to improve MAC’s visitor experience and strengthen its position within the local economy while supporting emerging and established artists and designer-makers. 

Following this exciting new investment that supports MAC’s commercial offer, plans to refit the arts centre’s gift shop and welcome desk are underway. Bringing a more positive and inviting arrival to MAC’s foyer, the new set-up will help to generate new income, support creative careers, deepen community connections and improve visitor access.

Showcasing a range of fresh finds and unique creations, the bright and inviting new space will carry product lines spanning ceramics, textiles, jewellery, painting and more. It will also create new income opportunities and support profile for leading designer-makers and artists from the region and beyond.  

The redevelopment will improve access to art and art supplies for MAC’s communities by making it easier to purchase original artwork, in turn building stronger, more sustainable connections between Midlands audiences and local talent.

To improve overall visitor experience, the project also encapsulates a redesigned foyer and welcome desk. The new space will host workshops, pop-ups, readings and creative taster sessions and demonstrations, fulfilling an important part of MAC’s mission to make art and creativity part of people’s everyday lives.  

This conversion of the foyer is an active response to visitor feedback, with the secured funding reflecting MAC’s reputation as a vital community space and a valuable proposition for investment from the local authority.

Ultimately, this transformation will provide a refreshed invitation to MAC, encouraging a greater sense of belonging for visitors and stakeholders as part of a vital creative community. In doing so, it will help MAC remain resilient and relevant as a Birmingham cultural hub for generations to come. 

Deborah Kermode, Chief Executive and Artistic Director, said:

“We are grateful to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the West Midlands Combined Authority and our private donors for their investment in this strategic redevelopment. Their support enables us to further align our visitor welcome and retail offer with MAC’s mission, championing regional creativity while strengthening our long-term sustainability.

More than a physical transformation, these renewed spaces reflect our commitment to a vibrant and welcoming environment for artists and audiences, while expanding how people can engage with and support MAC into the future.” 

This project has received funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund through the West Midlands Combined Authority and Birmingham City Council, alongside support from generous private individuals.

About the UK Shared Prosperity Fund

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund supports locally-designed projects that make a tangible difference to neighbourhoods and high streets. By investing in enterprise, visitor experience, and community activity, the fund is helping to create thriving places where independent retail can succeed and residents benefit from renewed economic confidence.

About the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA)

The West Midlands Combined Authority is the regional authority for the West Midlands, working with local councils and partners to drive economic growth, regeneration, skills, transport, and investment across the region. The authority manages a range of government funding programmes, including the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, supporting projects that strengthen communities, support local businesses, and create vibrant high streets and town centres.