The project gave small business owners the chance to test the market, selling products and services in a supportive envioronment, while utilising previously unoccupied space.
It saw 23 traders test out their business ideas and products in the space, which was based on Ty Newydd Road, just off King Square, in Barry.
The Pop Up Shop was at full capacity since launching in November 2021 until March 2022; it has now ended, with many of entrepreneurs growing their business through the project and preparing to take on their own retail space.
More than half of the generated revenue came during during the six-week Christmas period, with more than 950 people visiting the store in just one month.
The project was launched by business support organisation and commercial landlords, Business in Focus, and funded by the Vale of Glamorgan Council under the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns Initiative.
Business in Focus Chief Executive, Phil Jones, said:
“This project enabled us to provide support and flexible premises, tailored towards small business owners in Barry, to test out the model and their own business ideas in a realistic way.
“As well as being at full capacity throughout, notable successes undoubtedly revolved around the confidence boost for those entrepreneurs who have now taken that next step in securing their own premises, something they say wouldn’t have been possible before.”
He added that he hopes other towns in Wales adopt similar projects, and encouraged property owners who are able to temporarily offer space for future pop-ups to help “inspire the next generation of local entrepreneurs.”
Got a vacant property you think would work as a temporary Shared Spcae? Call Shared Spaces on 01656 868545.
Which businesses took part?
- Polka Lifestyle and Textiles;
- Nicola’s Crafts;
- Doggy Bandanas;
- Carys Ward (jewellery);
- The Beer Bucket Company;
- Laser Llama Designs;
- Quirky Clay;
- Rhiwax (wax melts);
- Meggo Bakes (cakes);
- Taste of Turner (Caribbean food);
- Abigail Walker Lingerie;
- Dwtty Crafts;
- Double Trouble Coffee;
- Little Daffodil (children’s clothing);
- Ivy Melts (wax melts and candles);
- Majestic Essentials (cosmetics);
- Take It Personal (personalised crafts);
- Shecan Closet (clothes);
- Wellystoppers;
- Peony Bay Handmade (accessories);
- Rhys’s Pieces (crafts);
- Pretty Little Blooms (accessories);
- Hapus Designs ( t-shirts).