Pop-up shop applications now open for the build up to Christmas in Chichester city centre

Entrepreneurs looking to test the market and get experience of being on the high street are being invited to apply for pop-up shop space in Chichester

Chichester District Council will be reopening applications for its two pop-up shops in Crane Street, Chichester, from Wednesday July 21 until Tuesday 10 August. Local businesses can find more information, eligibility criteria, and can apply at: www.chichester.gov.uk/popupshop

 

The scheme was introduced to help support small and start-up businesses in the Chichester District. Using shops owned by the council, the initiative offers affordable temporary premises for smaller enterprises. This gives local entrepreneurs the opportunity to trial business concepts and trade in a high street location without the commitment or cost of a longer-term lease.

 

Successful applicants will get the chance to appear on Chichester’s High Street in the run up to Christmas. Each unit is available for a maximum of 12 weeks and costs £50 per week, plus VAT, which also covers rates and utility bills.

Businesses that have already tested the water as part of the council’s Pop Up Shop initiative include a baby equipment and clothing retailer, art galleries, and an ice cream parlor.

 

Cllr Tony Dignum, Cabinet Member for Growth, Place and Regeneration, said: “The Pop Up Shop Initiative is a great way to help get a small or start-up business off the ground. As a council, we want to do everything we can to support our local businesses. As our high streets recover following the coronavirus lockdowns, this scheme gives new businesses the opportunity and confidence to get their ideas off the ground. It’s also a really useful way for local entrepreneurs who have been inspired to start up their own businesses to try out a physical presence in one of the district’s fantastic high streets.

“Now more than ever, it’s really important that we support local, and I would encourage everyone to make the most of the incredible array of shops and businesses we have in our district. By visiting our high streets in Chichester, East Wittering, Midhurst, Petworth and Selsey, you can help support our local businesses as they begin to recover from the pandemic.”

Pop up shops offer a range of benefits and the council’s scheme aims to:

 

·         provide affordable retail space for independent and start-up businesses;

·         draw in new customers and trade;

·         enhance the appearance of retail areas;

·         encourage the public to shop local, spend local, support local, during the pandemic; and

·         help meet the aims of the Chichester Vision by improving choice and offering more opportunities for independent shops.

People can find out more about the Pop Up Shop initiative by visiting: www.chichester.gov.uk/popupshop.