New Unit Is Top Of The Shops In Croydon Pop Up Emporium
A newly-refurbished shop is helping 10 new businesses onto the ladder of success by providing them with valuable town-centre space in a previously vacant unit.
The Croydon Emporium is part of the council’s retail support programme, funded by the Mayor’s Regeneration Fund, and is just one part of a wider drive to improve local high streets.
A launch event on 18 June saw shoppers in Church Street treated to lively carnival dancers and drummers who entertained passers-by and encouraged customers to explore the new mini-mall.
Councillor Toni Letts, cabinet member for economic development, said: “Bringing vacant shops back into use is a vital part of the work we are doing to breathe new life into our high streets, and it was great to have such fun entertainment for the opening event.
“The message we want to get out is that if you have a good business idea and the commitment to see it through, you can do it.
“Of course, every bit of help makes it easier, so here at the council we’re doing our part to give new traders assistance and support to grow their businesses. The Croydon Emporium is a great way for entrepreneurs to set up shop right in the centre of town.”
Kit Malthouse, deputy Mayor of London for business and enterprise, said: “This new unit is a fantastic example of creative thinking injecting new life into an old space on the high street. The Mayor has committed money from his regeneration fund to support the local enterprises making use of this space to kick-start their businesses.”
The 10 new businesses now trading from the Croydon Pop Up Emporium at 86-88 Church Street offer a range of contemporary fashion and lifestyle products.
• Tiny Treats – wedding favours and cafe
• UR-iD – embroidery and printing on clothes and shoes
• Dalila’s Kaftans – ladies’ fashion
• Claire’s Closet – ladies’ vintage fashion
• Fieni Fashion House – African ladies’ wear
• Primavera Fitness – ladies’ fitness wear
• London Bridal Boutique – bridal wear and occasion wear
• Lamilou and Madamoizelle – ladies’ fashion and beauty
• BornStar Clothing – urban fashion
• LL Frames – artwork and picture framing
For further information on the retail support programme, visit: www.croydon.gov.uk/business/support/retail-support/