Philly Butler firmly believes there is a bright future for independent retailers in Ripon.
For eight years, she and husband Mark provided a base at Wrens department store for fledgling businesses — more than a dozen of which grew and set up their own shops in the city.
‘The house of independent retailers’, as Wrens was known, closed this month after the cumulative effects of lockdown lost trade in the crucial summer and pre-Christmas periods took its toll.
Among 52 Wrens’ occupiers that had to look for a new location to sell their goods was Philly’s own fashion and accessories business Daisy Clover Boutique.
She told the Stray Ferret:
“Mark and I hoped above hope that we could continue with Wrens, but lost business along with the shut down of our tea room because of social distancing requirements were killer blows.”
But despite the disastrous impact of covid on retailers large and small, Philly remains confident of a post-coronavirus comeback for the high street in Ripon. She said:
“I think that the ‘shop local’ message has finally resonated with people who realise that independents are an important part of the community and you are being served by your friends and sometimes neighbours.”
A selection of winter hats at the Daisy Clover boutique
She added:
“Before I could find new premises, I received dozens of calls from customers asking where they were going to be able to get their winter hats.
“These are people who ask and care about my children and the family pets and these type of relationships have been built by retailers right across Ripon.”
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Ripon’s vacant shops are smaller than those in bigger retail centres, such as Harrogate and Leeds.
Smaller units are likely be much easier to fill than large units vacated by the likes of Debenhams, which could be to Ripon’s advantage.
Philly said:
“Units of this size don’t remain empty for long in Ripon, because in normal times, small businesses with something special to offer can rely on footfall all year round, from summer tourists, to market day visitors and loyal local customers.”
Her niche is an ever-changing display of one-off hand-selected womenswear made mostly from cotton, silk or cashmere and imported from Europe.
Philly also has another string to her bow as a perfume designer who helps people create customised aromas for themselves or as personalised gifts. She said:
Former Wrens retailers relocate to new Ripon base“At times like these, it’s amazing how the smell of a lovely scent can raise your spirits.”
It’s business as usual for two independent retailers, following the closure of Wrens department store in Ripon.
Mike and Liz Cooper and Hedley Hall have made the short journey from Fishergate to Queen Street, after Wrens’ owner Mark Butler helped them find new premises.
Mike and Liz sell jewellery, watches, fine porcelain and furniture at their Red Buttons business; Hedley specialises in antiques, collectables and vintage models.
They had traded together at Wrens for seven years.
Mike and Liz Cooper at the newly-opened shop premises they share with Hedley Hall
With some swift action and negotiation with the landlord, the two businesses were able to make their move.
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They look forward to successful trading in the crucial Christmas period and beyond.
Mike told the Stray Ferret:
“Liz and I have always got on very well with Hedley and it’s great that we are still working together.
“Mark was very helpful in letting us know about the vacant shop and putting us in touch with the landlord.”
Among its services, Red Buttons transforms jewellery into custom-crafted pieces.
Mike, who learnt his skills during 30 years at Goldsmiths jewellers, following 12 years in the Royal Navy, said:
“Our business at Wrens just grew and grew, alongside a good mixture of other independent retailers.”
Liz, added:
“It was a real shame when Mark reached the point where he could no longer make it work after two periods of lockdown. We thank him for what he has done for us.”
Hedley expressed similar sentiments:
“Mark is an absolute gentleman and has played a major role in helping numerous small businesses in Ripon – my own included.
“It is important for Ripon to have vibrant, independent shops and other businesses, which add to the attraction of the city for residents and visitors alike.
“We all have a part to play in its success as a retail destination.”