INDEPENDENT producers can showcase their goods and garner support and advice at an innovative business hub.
Running for eight weeks from Tuesday November 9, Love Live Local @ Rhyl will be based in the town’s White Rose Centre.
Supported by Denbighshire County Council, Antur Cymru and the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns Coastal Communities Fund, the project aims to attract new and existing food and drink firms or those looking to launch or develop their own venture to take up space, display local produce and utilise the expert guidance and mentoring on offer.
Open Tuesday to Sunday until the new year, the initiative will be based in a 3,000 sq ft unit and is inviting anyone in the county and surrounding towns and villages who does not already have a commercial premises to take up retail space.
Project Manager Lowri Roberts said this is an incredible opportunity for those interested in expanding or starting an artisan business in the seaside resort to explore the possibility ahead of the opening of the nearby Queen’s Market redevelopment, set to begin in 2022.
“We want to hear from food and drink producers, crafters and makers who want to expand into a retail premises, or those who have just started out or are planning to do so,” said Lowri.
“There will be space to display your products, access to advice on a number of topics – from finance and strategy to branding, marketing and much more – and a platform to develop your business model in a real, commercial environment.
“We are specifically targeting Denbighshire and areas on the county border, but also traders who might be interested in operating out of Rhyl in the future.
“Whether you make cheese, preserves, honey, environmentally friendly items or something completely different and need a place to demonstrate whether it’s a viable, profitable venture – this is the chance to do so.”
She added: “At present we are also seeking two candidates to run the shop day to day during this initial eight-week term, so please get in touch if you are interested.”
Kevin Harrington, Antur Cymru’s Business Development Manager, reinforced those words, and said: “We are delighted to be delivering this pop-up shop initiative having provided entrepreneurship and industry support for more than 40 years, including the Welsh Government’s flagship Business Wales programme.
“We encourage people in Denbighshire and the surrounding area to capitalise on what is a terrific opportunity to take your business, or business idea, to the next level in a warm, welcoming and friendly environment.”
Cllr Hugh Evans, Leader of Denbighshire County Council and Lead Member for the Economy, said: “We are excited to be able to provide on the ground support for Denbighshire businesses within Rhyl town centre’s biggest shopping centre.
“As well as acting as a support hub for businesses, by adding to the town centre retail offering it will attract visitors and provide a temporary use for a vacant retail unit. Local businesses need all of our support this winter – together let’s support our towns by shopping local and using the hashtag #LoveLiveLocal to encourage others.”
All participants will receive fully-funded access to Business Wales advisors and mentors on-site, marketing materials and advice on how to tender on Sell2Wales and other relevant websites.
