Dunelm, the UK’s leading homewares retailer, goes back to its roots as it invites local businesses to set up their own market stalls inside its Hereford store.
The Spur Retail Park based store has been hosting it’s ‘Shop Small, Support Local’ markets since last year, inspired by the brand’s own simple beginnings, trading home textiles from a market stall in Leicester in 1979.
Multiple small independent businesses have since set up stalls within the Hereford store, selling everything from pet products to bracelets, soap, candles and other homemade items with most businesses who have been involved now becoming regulars, returning weekly to set up shop.
Laura Dollery, who founded Loolums sweet treats, was one of the first businesses to take advantage of the unique opportunity offered by Dunelm and has benefited from the success of the markets and enjoys the social element of selling alongside other small businesses.
Laura added: “The Hereford staff are so welcoming and supportive of small businesses like mine, I always look forward to being part of the markets hosted by Dunelm.”
The markets grew in popularity over the festive period too, with the store hosting a special two-day Christmas market event in store which saw more than 10 businesses set up stalls across both days.
Rachel Chipp from Made By Little Chipp, a local business selling personalised signage and Christmas decor said: “Being part of the Dunelm Christmas market was brilliant, I loved the buzz and it felt super festive! We’re so grateful to the Hereford store for always supporting the local community”.
Someone that has seen the popularity of these local pop ups grow first-hand is Kim Thomas, Hereford Dunelm’s Store Coach. She added: “I’ve loved having so many independent businesses in store recently! These markets really bring the community together and it’s so encouraging seeing people shop small.”
More than 30 independent businesses have hosted their own stalls since last September, including Loolums, Made By Little Chipp, Supernova Sweets, Wye Wicks, Made By Silvia, Happy Mail Bracelets, Soapimi and Claires Craft Shed.
The opportunity to sell from Dunelm Hereford’s market is open to all local independent businesses for a small charity donation which goes to Dunelm’s charity partner, mental health charity, MIND.
Those wanting to find out more about the Small Business Markets and other community activities happening in store can do so via the Dunelm Hereford Community Facebook.
