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Retail space sharing isn't new. Large retail stores began subletting a few years ago to reduce retail-estate expenses, and benefit from store-within-a-store branding. We are familiar with department stores like Debenhams, and House of Frazer all of whom have followed this model for a number of years. However, with the recent pandemic and economic challenges many have struggled to maintain this successful business model predominantly due to exceptionally high lease and rates and intense online competition.
So could this concept work better for smaller retail outlets? Well yes, it can. Feather and Twigs including The Secret Closet boutique in Croston Lancashire is a shop share retail concept that follows this concept, it is simple and works beautifully. Feather and Twigs including The Secret Closet offers sustainable gifts, art, crafts and homeware combined with a ladies boutique with items that can't be found through online price comparison shopping. Our bricks and mortar and online concept works well, and as two businesses we split the lease costs, marketing and the staffing time but manage our own stock, accounts and admin. The benefits to the consumer are that they can purchase through one single outlet which offers a unique range of Artisan handcrafted items and sustainable clothing that could take a customer hours to find either searching online or by travelling to a local town or city.
However, we do recognise that being located in a village location has its marketing challenges. We don't have a high passing trade and therefore we need to constantly market ourselves to the wider community, introduce new products weekly and consistently showcase our products through social channels so regular consumers are aware of what is new.
Our residents have a reasonable disposable income and are loyal to their local independent shops, however, they also demand choice, exceptional quality and are also environmentally conscious preferring not to travel miles in their car for personal gifts or a new outfit for the weekend. Its definitely a win-win for both businesses and residents.
To visit The Secret Closet - www.thesecretcloset.co.uk
We’re delighted to introduce a new handcrafter to our Feather and Twigs family—Pam Peters Designs, a vibrant fused glass studio rooted in the heart of North Wales. Pam’s journey began in 2014, in a humble ‘Wendy House’ nestled in her garden, where she and a friend first experimented with glass, drawing inspiration from the surrounding wildlife and natural beauty. What started as a creative spark soon blossomed into a flourishing business.
Mark your calendars for a weekend of creativity, inspiration, and community spirit! On Friday 27th and Saturday 28th September, Feather & Twigs is proud to host a Community Art Fair at the beloved Croston Old School, bringing together a vibrant mix of local artists and their stunning work.
Little Beau Sheep’s founder, Sarah Turner, has redefined what it means to love your laundry and pamper your skin—all while honouring the environment. Her collection uses British wool sourced responsibly, offering alternatives to everyday essentials that are kinder to the planet. From lanolin-rich laundry balls to all-natural felted soap, each item is crafted with care and a commitment to sustainability.
