A new unit is opening in Andover tomorrow (April 17), giving not one but six different businesses an outlet for their goods in the Chantry Centre. The InAndover Shared Shop is opening at 10am on Saturday, which aims to allow businesses without a presence on the high street to ‘test the waters’ by selling their products from the unit. Should it be successful, they will then be supported to take over a unit of their own. The shop is being spearheaded by Andover BID and Test Valley Borough Council, with Steve Godwin, BID manager, saying he was “really enthusiastic” about the new venture.
It’s a mixed outlook for the Chantry Centre this week as new businesses open in the shopping centre, while another leaves town. The One Pound Shop is taking over a large unit opposite Waterstones in the heart of the building, while the BID emporium, featuring products from a range of the town’s businesses. Meanwhile, Waterstones’ neighbour Game has confirmed it is leaving Andover, with the business relocating out of town. Kal Dhillon, director of The One Pound Shop group, said they were “really excited” to come to Andover. The Chantry Centre has been at the heart of town for a number of years, but has suffered from changing retail habits, with a number of units lying empty. It was purchased by Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) in 2019, who set about on a number of projects aimed at revitalising the building.
Readers suggested nearly 100 local businesses from Andover With more businesses set to reopen next month, The Advertiser has asked our readers to share their favourite small and independent firms around the town to give them a much-needed boost after a challenging year for most sectors. From gyms to bakeries to cafes and service providers, nearly 100 people got in touch to tell us why they love their local businesses and what sets them apart from the competition. Among the recommendations we received, most were for craft makers, cafes and service providers. But there were also shoutouts for beauty and fitness centres.
A new range of Valentine’s Day gifts, produced by local artisans from across Wiltshire and the surrounding areas, is now available to purchase online. The website showcases artisans from across Wiltshire or those with products intrinsically linked to the County and was launched in late 2020. The artisans currently involved include Trowbride based Sinceris, which produces home fragrances and hair body care products, as well as The Magnificent Seed, which bottles rapeseed oil from their farm in Shrewton. Alongside other existing members of Wiltshire Makers (Wessex Spirits, Ta Moko Espresso, Utta Nutta, Alexander Chocolate and Wilding’s Snacks), three new artisans have joined the group; Sugar Wish Bakes & Cakes, Elm BakeAway and Foxglove and Freesia.