A craft collective in the heart of Andover has been awarded an Independent Retailer Grant worth up to £1200 from Test Valley Borough Council to help support its continued growth.
The Kitten’s Emporium, located in George’s Yard, showcases and sells crafts, gifts and clothing from a range of small businesses. Owner Kitty Skye opened the shop after previously being involved in another craft collective, now taking the step of running her own independent business.
Open six days a week, the shop provides a platform for local makers and creators to sell their products, including Kitty’s own jewellery and crystal business and her husband’s handmade instrument & musical accessories business. Her husband, Adam, also helps to run the shop on weekends.
The welcoming premises feature a beautifully presented retail space for gifts and crafts, alongside a dedicated clothing room with a spacious changing area that can also be used to host small workshops, such as ceramic painting sessions. Customers can keep up to date with events and activities through The Kitten’s Emporium’s Facebook and Instagram channels. The grant will help the enterprise to continue to establish itself within Andover town centre.
Kitty said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the businesses, the community and, of course, all my existing and future customers for making me feel so incredibly welcome in my first few months here in Andover!”
St Mary’s Ward Councillor Iris Andersen said: “Independent businesses play a vital role in supporting our town centres and local economic growth. The Kitten’s Emporium provides opportunities for dozens of small businesses to showcase their products while offering residents and visitors a unique shopping experience. We are delighted to support Kitty through the Independent Retailer Grant and wish her every success for the future.”
The Independent Retailer Grant is part of the council’s ongoing commitment to supporting local businesses and encouraging economic growth across the borough. It provides £1200 in two tranches, after a minimum three months and nine months of trading, to businesses moving into empty ground floor town centre premises.