Hampshire Fare members to get a spotlight in Gunwharf as it launches Loved By Gunwharf initiative
Independent businesses given chance to host daily pop-ups in Gunwharf
A range of ‘fantastic’ businesses across Hampshire will have the chance to showcase their products in Gunwharf after a new initiative was launched.
Hampshire Fare, who has over 350 local businesses as members from across the food and drink industry, has partnered with the waterside shopping centre to launch Loved By Gunwharf. The scheme will see kiosks set up in The Avenues enabling local businesses to set up in an area of heavy footfall for a day at time.
Hampshire Fare have already spent a day at a kiosk in Gunwharf handing out their free Local Produce Guides as it looks to promote local independent businesses.
Natasha Dochniak, Commercial Director of Hampshire Fare, said: “As we celebrate our 35th anniversary this year, it feels particularly fitting that we are continuing to do what Hampshire Fare has always been about – championing independent businesses and helping them find new opportunities to grow. We want to create genuine opportunities for our members, help them find new routes to market, make new connections and reach customers they might not otherwise have access to.
“Loved By Gunwharf is a great example of this in action. For a small independent business, the opportunity to test a new market in a high-footfall destination without taking on the commitment of a permanent retail space is really attractive. The scale of Gunwharf Quays means businesses can potentially reach a completely new audience, including visitors from across the UK and overseas.
“I also think it’s fantastic to see a major destination like Gunwharf Quays actively creating space for independent businesses. Supporting local businesses and creating opportunities for them to grow is something we all have a role to play in, and this is exactly the kind of partnership we want to build – making connections, opening doors and helping our members get their products in front of new audiences.”
With between 150,000 and 200,000 visitors walking through Gunwharf each week, the initiative provides an excellent opportunity for businesses to widen their customer base without the commitment of a permanent retail space.
Paul Gorst, Business Development Manager at Gunwharf Quays, said: “Portsmouth and the surrounding areas are home to some fantastic businesses, and we are proud to be involved and help support these independent brands.
“This initiative is about removing barriers and introducing local independents to thousands of new customers every day – we encourage any businesses looking to take their next step to reach out and get involved.”