A flurry of new independent shops is coming to Whitchurch town centre as traders pin their hopes on increased footfall when a new supermarket arrives nearby.
Four retail premises in the town centre have changed hands in recent weeks, paving the way for new shops to open and existing businesses to expand.
It comes ahead of Sainsbury’s imminent arrival with a new store off London Road expected to open next year.
But independent traders appear undeterred and have invested in vacant town centre shops and vowed to create jobs.
Simon Roberts, from Wrenbury, has just opened a new bakery in Watergate Street specialising in ‘chemical free’ bread after several years running the Simply Pie stall on the weekly market.
He said there could be scope for new jobs in future but initially he will be ‘going it alone’.
Asked if the arrival of Sainsbury’s could be an advantage, he said: “I’m becoming a bit more positive that it could bring more shoppers to the town.”
Rachel Vernon, from Wem, has just opened her second No Sweat health and wellbeing studio in High Street after launching her first outlet in Wem last month.
She said: “We’ve hit the ground running and I’m pleased with how the studios are going.
“It will be interesting to see when Sainsbury’s is built if it brings more people down the High Street.”
The studio has created four jobs and offers I.Fit training machines which vibrate and oscillate to give users a work out.
Cafe owner Juan Soler has recently taken over the Card Market greetings card shop in Green End.
Andy Bettison, owner of Wagstaffes shoe shop, is behind plans to open a new gift shop in Mill Street next month.
It will carry gifts for him, for her and for baby and Mr Bettison said there could be three jobs created.
He added: “It’s good to see some of the empty shops being taken on.
“I do think Sainsbury’s coming to town will help bring in more pedestrians.”
Whitchurch landlord and chamber of commerce member Michael Bate said: “It’s quite heartening, Whitchurch is bucking the trend.”
Deputy mayor, Councillor Rob Hewson, said: “These new shops show people have confidence in our town and we welcome them with open arms. I hope they get the support to do well.”