Runcorn Shopping Centre helps local traders set up pop-up stores
The Box, a new pop-up incubator at Runcorn Shopping Centre near Liverpool, is providing local traders with business training and an opportunity to launch their venture without the overheads involved in opening a permanent shop.
The centre, which is managed by international real estate advisor Savills, has converted the former Poundstretcher store into 20 pop up retail spaces with flexible leases for a week at a time or set days per week.
Having opened in May, The Box is currently occupied by a range of local retailers offering a range of products including bespoke babywear, homemade cakes, jams and chutneys, vintage furniture, and handmade cushions. It also offers free exhibition space for schools and community groups and a dedicated busking stage.
Karl Clawley, centre manager at Runcorn Shopping Centre, said: “The Box is part of our commitment to recapture the community feel of the centre and support local businesses to enter the retail world, removing common barriers such as start-up costs. Feedback from shoppers has been fantastic and it is hoped that many of the retailers will go on to open their own stores in the future.”
Traders are also provided with access to training visual merchandising, business planning and finance, buying, and sales and management.
