Housewares stockists, Mooch Gifts & Home, (Stourport on Severn and Bewdley) and Joco Interiors (Nuneaton) were among the ‘25 Best Small Shops in the UK’ that were commended at an event held at the House of Commons last week (November 5). The overall title of Britain’s Best Small Shop 2019 was awarded to Papadeli in Bristol – a deli with a cookery school.
Jon May, co-owner of Mooch Gfits & Home (stockists of Moorland Pottery, Quail Ceramics and Cloud Nine) said that being in the final was “great PR for Mooch.” He continued: “customers have been coming into our shops to say you really deserve this. To be in the top 25 Best Small Shops final is a great achievement for us.”
Joco’s owner Jo Williams said: “This year has been amazing for the business and we were thrilled to be shortlisted.”
“It’s great to be able to celebrate the lifeblood of our high streets, our independent retailers, especially at this time of uncertainty and discord,” stated Meryl Halls, vice chair of the Independent Retail Confederation (IRC), organiser of the competition. “The role of an independent retailer can seem like a thankless task, but they are nothing if not survivors. Small shop owners employ local people and contribute to local communities and we are so pleased to have been able to showcase the best of independent retailing and give a vision of how engaging and exciting our high streets can be.”
Top: Mooch’s co-owners John May and Luke Jacks at the House of Commons event.
