Pop Up Shops open for business in Ballymena

The businesses have enjoyed the benefits of being part of the Start Up Retail Programme which provides those involved with the skills to develop their business idea and the opportunity to test trade in the Fairhill Shopping Centre in Ballymena in Pop Up Shops.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Peter Johnston, said: “I am pleased that Council is running this initiative, providing our local entrepreneurs the opportunity to showcase local talent and to test trade.

“This has been an incredibly difficult year for all businesses and we hope that this will assist in a small way to generate income for those involved during the festive season.”

Through online workshops, the businesses have already started learning about developing their brand, marketing their business, how to price their products, selling in-store and on-line and visual merchandising.

In addition they are also receiving up to 12 hours specialist retail focused one to one mentoring which includes product development, e-commerce, brand/logo development and managing a retail business.