Creative businesses offered low-rent retail space in time for Christmas
Prime retail space in Tamworth town centre is being offered as part of an initiative to support creative individuals who would like to take their talents to the next level and set up shop in time for Christmas.
Created in Tamworth in Market Street is a Tamworth Borough Council initiative offering studio, gallery and retail space at reduced rates - as well as commercial advice and support - with the aim of developing local creative businesses.
The former Tourist Information Centre building currently has space for a number of new businesses and could even get them in before Christmas so they can take advantage of the peak sales season.
Opened in 2013, Created in Tamworth aims to support start-ups in the early stages of their businesses with the hope that they will gain the knowledge and experience needed to grow further.
It has been a great success so far, with some of its previous tenants being able to move on to new ventures, such as bigger premises dedicated to their own businesses.
As a result of this success, the project is currently home to only one business, and new tenants are needed.
Teresa and Nick Radcliffe of Vintage Makes and Bakes started their own business making and decorating cakes for all occasions at home before deciding to take it to the next level with a shop front.
Teresa has been based in Created in Tamworth since summer 2015 and has now extended the business to include a tea room element where people can enjoy her tasty treats, including tea and toast with homemade jam, on a day-to-day basis.
Teresa said: “I had always wanted my own shop and Created in Tamworth enabled me to get on the high street at an affordable price. I am very happy with how it’s going. Business is booming and I’m incredibly busy; I even have to turn people away at times.
“I was working from home before and it’s so hard because you don’t get the passing trade. Here we get lots of people walking past and coming in, including visitors from places like Lichfield and Rugeley, as well as Tamworth.”
The project is open to any small creative industry from Tamworth – including jewellery makers, artists, photographers, card makers and fashion designers. The main requirement is that people design and make their own unique items to sell.
Cllr Steve Claymore, Tamworth Borough Council’s Cabinet member for Regeneration, said: “Created in Tamworth is a very innovative project which aims to help Tamworth’s creative individuals turn their hobbies into successful business ventures. As well as getting prime retail space at a reduced price, tenants also have access to vital business advice and support.
“We know it works because some former tenants have gone on to open their own premises elsewhere, under their own steam. However, this success does mean we are always looking for new tenants and I would urge anyone out there with a creative hobby or talent to give it a go. There is also room for workshops and crafting sessions, so plenty of opportunities for businesses to expand their offering as well.
“It’s also the perfect time to make the leap. Why not make 2017 the year that you take your business to the next level? If you get in touch now, you could even be in by Christmas so you can take advantage of the busy shopping period.”
Rents range from £150 to £325 per month, depending on the space, plus associated utility and service costs.
Anyone interested in renting a space at Created in Tamworth can contact the Arts Development Team on 01827 709314 or email tar@artsdevelopment.gov.uk.
