The initiative has received significant backing from key partners, including JAGG Designs, who have meticulously crafted the store’s design and merchandising, and Castle Artisan Events, who will be hosting a series of engaging in-store events.

Additionally, Stoke-on-Trent City Centre BID has provided vital support, sponsoring the press launch and hosting seasonal workshops in the lead-up to Halloween and Christmas to further enrich the store’s offerings.

“This is more than just a pop-up store,” said Andrew Nixon, Co Founder of Keep It Local.

“We are creating a space that celebrates the creativity and spirit of Stoke-on- Trent. Our goal is to bring the magic of Christmas back to our city and offer a shopping experience that the community can truly be proud of.”

Richard Buxton, Director of Stoke-on-Trent City Centre BID, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, “We’re thrilled to be a part of Keep It Local’s new venture. This department store is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the best of what our creative community has to offer, and it’s initiatives like this that really make a difference in revitalising our high streets.”

Similarly, The Potteries Centre has shown strong support for the new department store.

“We’re excited to welcome Keep it Local, the first-ever creative department store, to The Potteries Centre. It comes at a perfect time of the year with the festive season approaching and we are confident that this new addition will be a great success.” said Amy Whittaker, Centre Manager.

“We want to continue offering the local community a space to explore
their creativity and discover unique, handcrafted gifts. We look forward to welcoming visitors to the centre to get involved with the activities and workshops available, catering to a range of interests, making sure there’s something for all.”

The Creative Department Store will remain open until Christmas Eve to provide a hub of creativity for more than 200 small businesses and
local charities. Shoppers can explore a wide array of handmade clothing, home fragrance, jewellery, stationery, homeware, artwork, retro gaming, vintage clothing, and the uniquely local Stokie giftware along with artisans from further afield.

In addition to the retail experience, the store will feature themed events led by the triple-award winning Castle Events team including #MusicMonday with vinyl sales. #CharityTuesday highlighting local charities, #FoodieFridays showcasing local culinary talent, and #MeetTheMaker sessions where customers can interact with the artisans behind the products.

A variety of workshops, including musical theatre hosted by The Regent Theatre, circus skills, permanent jewellery sessions, and Christmas crafts such as wreath and candle making, will provide visitors with hands-on experiences to inspire the next generation of local creatives.

“This project has been a labour of love for our team,” added Laura Nixon, Co-Founder and Head of the Department Store.

“We’ve worked tirelessly to transform an empty retail space into a destination that not only supports local businesses but also reinvests in our community. We believe in the people and the city of Stoke-on-Trent, and we’re committed to making this a success and championing our creative county.”

The Creative Department Store builds on the success of Keep It Local’s two permanent shops located in Longton and Newcastle-under-Lyme.

The store’s launch has been made possible through collaborative efforts with local organisations, including The Potteries Centre, Castle Artisan Events, and Stoke-on- Trent City Centre BID. The initiative has also partnered with the UHNM Cancer Centre to raise funds through special events such as a second-hand book sale, a charity head shave for Keep It Local Co-Founder Laura to raise funds and the sale of a charity bookmark designed by one of the store’s artists.

For more information visit https://keepitlocalshop.co.uk/