Boost for business with new shopping hub (From Harwich and Manningtree Standard)
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Boost for business with new shopping hub
1:00pm Thursday 7th February 2013 in News
TRADERS have joined forces to give a recession-hit high street a boost by opening a “mini-department store” in Manningtree.
Blooming Crafty, in Station Road, Manningtree, which opened today, will feature different businesses, including a florists, handmade craft stalls and a travel agent all under one roof.
It is hoped the venture will cut overhead costs for smaller businesses who want to get a foot on the retail ladder.
Toni Spurgin, 38, used to run Rose Marie florists from the premises before closing down in December 2012, after 15 years of trading.
But Toni made a U-turn and embarked on the venture after rejecting an offer for the building from a takeaway.
She said: “If there’s one thing Manningtree doesn’t need, it’s another takeaway.
“I decided Manningtree needs something like this and I couldn’t let the town down."
Jenine Collier, chairman of the Manningtree Business Chamber, who will run travel agents J&M Travel in Blooming Crafty, said the shop would be a mini-department store.
