The Birchley Industrial Estate-based store has hosted ‘Shop Small, Support Local’ markets since August, inspired by the brand’s simple beginnings, trading home textiles from a market stall in Leicester in 1979.
Several small independent businesses have set up stalls in the Oldbury store, selling everything from cards to chocolate brownies, melted wax and candles – many of which are products Dunelm also stocks.
Kelly Louise, who founded Kelly’s Homemade Cards, was one of the first companies to take advantage of the unique opportunity offered by Dunelm and attracted a new clientele different from the craft fairs it previously attended.
She said: “I’m so grateful for the opportunity Dunelm has given, it’s such a friendly and welcoming atmosphere in the Oldbury store. These markets are so beneficial for artists just starting out, as they can showcase their crafts without the significant overhead often of a freelance setup. »
Someone who has seen the popularity of these local pop-ups grow first hand is store manager Kayleigh Davenport who said: “I love that we are helping small businesses grow, knowing that we are bringing them closer to the local community is just great.”
More than 40 independent businesses have hosted their own booths since last August, including Kelly’s Homemade Cards, Cakes By Chloe, Perfect Match Wax and Dapper Dogs Of Bearwood.
The opportunity to sell at Dunelm Oldbury Market is open to all local independent businesses for a small charitable donation. Most of the businesses that have been involved are now regulars, returning weekly to set up shop.
