Pop-up shop launches to help young entrepreneurs

A pop-up shop has launched to fuel young entrepreneurs’ business ambitions.

The Hull Emporium is helping aspiring owners working across retail, digital, graphic design and joinery.

The venture is led by the Making Changes for Careers programme (MC4C).

It was opened by the Lord Mayor of Kingston Upon Hull and Admiral of the Humber Councillor Cheryl Payne, and will operate on weekdays until March.

Paul Smith, MC4C youth enterprise advisor, said: “We wanted to provide something to support young entrepreneurs and came up with Hull Emporium as a retail outlet, which can also be used as managed workspace.

“It is a place where young entrepreneurs can meet business contacts and promote their products and services.”

Jamie Edwards, owner of 3D printing business Edwards Industries, is one of the entrepreneurs benefiting from MC4C’s support.

He said: “I’m working on home décor and planning to expand into footwear and clothing.

“I’ve learned a lot from MC4C – things like tax, money management and marketing.

“The Emporium gives us all a big opportunity.”

Melissa Foster, whose design business works on music gig posters and band t-shirts, added: “MC4C has given me loads of business advice, and I feel as though I’m equipped to run a business now.

“I normally work from home, so it’s nice to have the opportunity to work in person.

“I’ll be able to reach a lot more people working here.”

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