National Independents' Day 

 

National Independents' Day is a national campaign aimed at celebrating the UK's independent retailers, which encourages the public to buy at least one thing from their local, independent shop on 04 July.

 

With so many interesting small independent businesses in Swindon, locals have come together to help create awareness of some of the independent shops and café's in the town by holding an exhibition at U Piri Piri throughout the week including 04 July.

 

Shops that took part include Sugar Celebrations, Egg-Elicious, ATB shop, Crumbs café, Fancy Pants Retro Emporium, Spot On Model Railway shop, U Piri Piri, Old Town Hardware, Sky Walkers, Swindon Pulse and Jumbles Second Hand Boutique.

Sugar Celebrations

A great example of a successful local business, run only by two good friends!

Their knowledge of all things confectionary is what makes them so valued by their customers.

Crumbs Café

Nicky Hamlen is the proud owner of Crumbs Café in the tented market, which was previously known as the Memphis Diner.

After purchasing the café back in 2011, Nicky really went to town on the refurbishment and put her stamp on it.

Fancy Pants Retro Emporium

Fancy Pants Retro Emporium is a family run business, which opened in April 2011 selling vintage & retro clothing, home ware & accessories.

Fancy Pants offer a unique personal service from people who are knowledgeable & excited about their products, discouraging throw-away fashion that the high street promotes and giving new life to old items.

Spot On Models

Spot on Model Railway shop was founded in 1931 & is a family run business.

They aim to help local customers with all their model-related enquiries.

ATB Shop

ATB shop is a family run store set up 12 years ago by Stuart in his mum and dads house.

Since then the store has grown steadily, moving into bigger premises and hiring more staff, who are all very knowledgable and friendly!

For more information on Independent's Day, please visit the Facebook page via the link below.

Photos & text by Lynette Thomas