Member Article

Small businesses in the spotlight at intu Metrocentre

To coincide with Independence Day on 4 July, intu Metrocentre is running Independent Retailer Week to celebrate everything special and unique about its fabulous local retailers with fun events, exclusive discounts and competitions - as well as a campaign encouraging talented new entrepreneurs.

From 1 - 8 July intu Metrocentre will be showcasing its independent retailers in style - displaying gorgeous pieces from innovative brands and giving shoppers the chance to sample tasty treats and indulge in the hottest new season offerings.

With over fifty independent retailers, selling everything from homeware, childrenswear, specialist food and drink, as well as hair and beauty services, sitting alongside international fashion brands, high street names, department stores and top dining – at intu Metrocentre, variety really is the spice of life.

The Village and The Forum are a hive of independent retailers – with an eclectic mix of offerings including exceptional jewellery, unique gifts, sumptuous spa products and small, but perfectly formed suits for tiny tots.

To celebrate the idea that good things come in small packages, on Wednesday 5 July, intu Metrocentre is inviting shoppers along to a baby brunch from 10 am – 12.30 pm in The Village, between the blue and green malls. With story-telling sessions, face-painting and fun with the Metrognomes keeping little ones content, parents can indulge their creative side with fabulous floristry demonstrations by Rebel Flower Company.

A host of fantastic competitions from some of intu Metrocentre’s favourite independent retailers will be taking place throughout the week, as well as exclusive discounts - including 20% off full priced stock at Peek A Boo and 10% off any purchase at The Back Page.

intu Metrocentre will also be hosting two exciting entries to Foodpreneur 2017 – a competition where intu has joined forces with Virgin StartUp to seek out the most innovative food entrepreneurs that the UK has to offer.

Two of the eight Foodpreneur 2017 semi-finalists will be based at intu Metrocentre during Independent Retailer Week. The new brands include Sea Chips, the UK’s first makers of hand crafted salmon skin crisps and Tuk Tuk Chai, where infusions of black tea, creamy milk and aromatic spices ensure the most authentic glass of street tea this side of Delhi.

Both businesses will be showcasing, sampling and selling their product at a customised pop-up, situated on the first floor balcony, near Evans - giving them invaluable experience and the chance to access real customer feedback, before the final winner is selected in September.

Helen Atkinson, marketing manager at intu Metrocentre, said:

“Independent Retailer Week gives us the perfect opportunity to highlight the diverse range of retailers we have at intu Metrocentre and introduce visitors to some of our exciting new stores.

“Having a mix of independent boutiques alongside high street names gives shoppers a greater choice and the chance to find something truly special – whether it’s a gift for friends and family or a treat for themselves.

“We’re also delighted to host the Foodpreneur semi-finalists – it’s a fantastic opportunity for them to prove how popular their ideas are and reach thousands of new customers, whilst also encouraging other young entrepreneurs to pursue their business dreams.”

Foodpreneur dates: Sea Chips will be in centre from Friday 30 June – Friday 7 July Tuk Tuk Chai will be in centre from Friday 30 June – Thursday 6 July

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Suhaine Baptie .