New indoor market to open in old Argos shop in Kidderminster

Work is under way to transform the former Argos store in the Swan Centre into an indoor hub for stallholders and businesses called 'Pop Up Central'.

The scheme has seen Kidderminster pub owner Adam Wilcox team up with bosses at the shopping centre to make the project a reality.

It is hoped the market will provide a vital boost to the town's economy during the post-coronavirus recovery by offering businesses a chance to set up on site at a low cost.

The site will be transformed and social distancing measures will be put in place

Adam, who runs Pennies and The Vault in Kidderminster, said: "It's a joint effort to get people get back into town.

"It's already hard for potential business owners with the rising costs of running a business and then on top of that there is the effect of Covid-19, with redundancies and closures."

Adam said the project is for the benefit of the community and hopes it will inspire people to launch their businesses.

Pitch owners will have to pay a flat low weekly rent and their own public liability insurance costs, but utility costs and rates will be covered by Adam in a bid to help businesses grow in these uncertain times.

Phil Murphy, asset manger at the Swan Centre said: "I've been working with Adam to see how we can bring more life into the town centre.

"We can provide the unit at a minimal cost so people can try out their business ideas. It can benefit the town centre come rain or shine and it's about giving back to the community so to they can use it and try out new ideas."

Already more than 20 businesses have expressed an interest in setting up in the space, including vintage clothes and antiques stalls.

It is anticipated between 30 and 40 stalls will be able to set up at full capacity, with the former Argos building covering two floors.

The market will cover two floors and can cater for up to 40 stalls

Adam hopes hairdressers and nail salons will eventually make use of the rooms at the site.

It is hoped the market will be open in August and it will strictly follow social distancing measures, with hand sanitation points, marked walkways and separate in and out exits.

Stalls will also be separated to enforce social distancing to keep shoppers and staff safe.

It is not the only new venture to look forward to in Kidderminster when lockdown is lifted, as Adam is beginning work to open a brand new real ale and cider house in the former Harvey's Jewellers building at the centre.

Meanwhile, he also plans to expand the food offering at Pennies to American and Italian food when it is allowed to safely reopen under government guidelines.

Anyone interested in setting up at Pop Up Central should email popupcentralltd@gmail.com.