Wiltshire Makers take over Salisbury unit with pop-up shop
They'll be in the Old George Mall for at least six months
A group of artisan producers and sellers have joined forces to open their own pop-up shop in Salisbury's Old George Mall.
The Wiltshire Makers store has set up with an initial six month lease, showcasing locally made items direct to customers.
A not-for-profit Community Interest Company was set up in November 2020, bringing together the smaller businesses into one organisation.
They've been attending events and markets across Wiltshire and selling online, as well as organising their own markets at St. Thomas’s Church in Salisbury and in Michael Herbert Hall, Wilton.
The Chair of the Wiltshire Makers CIC, Claire Burden said:
“This has been a long time coming and there has been a huge amount of effort behind the scenes to make this dream a reality. A huge thanks to the team of volunteers who made it all possible. The response so far from the public has been overwhelming and we have had nearly a thousand people through the doors during opening weekend.
“We are truly grateful to the Old George Mall and their management company for providing a great location and store for the pop-up. We would love to see as many people as possible over the next few months and show your support by shopping local this festive season.”
The group's also has support from Wiltshire Council's Salisbury Area Board, to pay for EPOS till systems and footfall counters.
The pop-up shop, which is being run by volunteers, also has its own crowdfunding page |newtab), in an effort to keep it going past the initial six month lease.
The Mayor of Salisbury, Councillor Atiqul Hoque, who cut the ribbon on opening day, said:
“It was an honour to open the new Wiltshire Makers pop-up shop on Saturday. It is always great to see a new business coming to the City, one that supports local artisans right here on the doorstep is even more special. I would like to wish Claire and her team the very best with this venture.”