Traders in Walthamstow Market are “thrilled” ahead of the opening of Stow Bazaar on the site of a former Wilko. The space, situated roughly halfway along the High Street, has been converted into small retail units to form a new section of Europe’s longest street market.
Although it will officially open on Saturday, June 1 a handful of new businesses have begun welcoming customers this week. Pamela Lyons, who opened Maria’s House and Furniture on Wednesday (May 29) told MyLondon the businesses in Stow Bazaar are already a “little family” ahead of the official launch.
She said: “It’s been very positive so far. We began setting up last week and all the other traders have been really nice and friendly. It feels like we’re building a new community here.
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“It’s great that we’re able to use the old Wilko space and set up businesses here.” Pamela, who is originally from Ireland, has set up the business with her partner after they received money for their engagement.
She added that she plans to offer a bigger range of products over the new few weeks. “I haven’t seen this sort of thing being sold in Walthamstow Market, so I believe these items will be popular,” she continued.
After the Walthamstow branch was one of 115 Wilko stores to close on September 25 last year, signs initially indicated that it was being converted for property guardianships.
Just two days after Wilko’s closure, Uniguard began advertising for live-in guardians. Despite enquiries, it’s unclear what the space was used for until the sign for Stow Bazaar appeared on the shopfront during the past few weeks.
The opening of Stow Bazaar follows a difficult period endured by traders along Walthamstow Market. Theft in particular has blighted many hoping to earn a living, with some planning to leave London altogether due to how hard it’s become to make money. Despite this, new business owners see Stow Bazaar as a way to revitalise the market.
Princess Caulker, who set up clothes shop GlitzGlamBoutiqu3, told MyLondon she was the first person to open a store in the space. Princess previously owned an outdoor stall in Walthamstow Market, but was glad to take advantage of this new opportunity.
“I’m so thrilled and excited about this,” she said. “It’s much better to be inside. When I was displaying it outside I had to worry about the rain and setting it up everyday.
“There’s going to be beauticians, perfume supply stores, an African shop and lots of other stores. We’ve already been quite busy considering we’ve only just opened.”
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