Shrewsbury’s Darwin Centre seeks its next independent businesses

The Collective in The Darwin centre

The Collective independent traders’ gallery in Shrewsbury’s Darwin shopping centre is looking for new independent brands to join its existing traders.

The Collective has been hugely successful since opening in December 2020 and has helped several independent businesses open their first permanent ‘bricks and mortar’ stores by offering them affordable and flexible leasing terms.

Now The Darwin is now looking for the next independent businesses to take space inside The Collective. Anyone interested in having space in The Collective, or in The Darwin should contact info@shrewsbury-shopping.co.uk.

The Collective is located on the lower floor of The Darwin and consists of an eclectic mix of independent brands. These include Sydney’s Café, Buttercup Bookshop, Heavenly Brides, Tubeway Records, DVD Megastore, Bethany’s Boutique, Dada Oriental Thai, Meena Beauty Salon, Portofolio, and iRehab.

The Collective has become a prominent destination in Shrewsbury for people looking for something unique, local and special. The space – which was formerly home to QVC – can house up to 11 independent businesses.

This independent offer sits seamlessly alongside well-known national brands available in the Centre including M&S, WILKO, Primark and H&M. This has helped cement the centre as Shrewsbury’s premier shopping destination.

Estaban Bridges

Estaban Bridges, owner of DVD Megastore and Buttercup Bookshop (pictured), said:

“There’s no doubt that being in The Collective has enabled our growth to continue, resulting in us now moving to our own standalone store within the centre. The management team have always been so supportive of me – when we had to move shop location from the Pride Hill Centre they were very enthusiastic about the creation of The Collective, which is a wonderful incubator space for businesses.”

Suzanne Heavens, Owner of Heavenly Brides and Bethany’s Boutique, said:

 “The Collective is a fabulous space for local independent businesses, and I was very happy with the support I got from the Centre management team when I moved from the Pride Hill Centre. It’s a really lovely atmosphere and all the tenants support each other.  My bridal shop has gone from strength to strength despite the pandemic; consequently, I decided to open an additional eveningwear boutique, also within The Collective, just last year.”

Kevin Lockwood, Darwin Centre manager, said:

“The Collective has become a true destination for people searching for something a little more unique in Shrewsbury. Having a full and varied offer has absolutely contributed to the success of the Collective, so we are very excited to find our next small, local businesses that we can support and nurture.”