In response to growing demand for business premises in Portsmouth, the council in partnership with Cascades and Flude have opened applications for a Portsmouth Pop Up shop scheme.
This scheme enables local entrepreneurs and small businesses to trade in a high street location without the commitment or cost of a longer-term lease. As part of the scheme, businesses can apply to rent the pop-up shop in Cascades, in Portsmouth’s city centre for a minimum of 6 weeks giving them a chance to engage with customers and launch products and services.
Since the pandemic, the council’s Economic Development team have seen an increase in the number of new businesses starting up and consequently an increase in the number of businesses requesting temporary high street space for their business.
The Pop-Up shop will be located inside Cascades and will open in the Spring.
Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of the council with responsibility for Economic Development said “Part of the council’s plan to regenerate our high streets involves re-imagining the offer for residents whilst developing economic activities that support our local economy. The Portsmouth Pop Up aims to encourage creativity and innovation and support local start-ups , entrepreneurs and small businesses to grow by providing them with an opportunity to trial business concepts in a low-risk environment.”
Eligible businesses will be assessed and interviewed as part of a selection process. These businesses will also receive support through the council’s business support team.
Andrew Philip, Centre Manager at Cascades said “Cascades are especially pleased to be host to the Portsmouth Pop Up, as it will provide small and start up business with the exposure to a high footfall shopping precinct far sooner than perhaps was previously thought possible, whilst providing a “point of interest retailer” for our customers to discover something a little different.
“At Cascades we are home to a number of independent retailers throughout our mall spaces, and hope that those businesses joining the pop up will go on to join these ranks with the help and support of our partners at Portsmouth City Council and Flude Property Consultants.”
Alice Masterman, Surveyor at Flude said “We are really excited to see new businesses and our thriving independent retail market get the opportunity to trial a shop out. We come across lots of business owners who want a space on a short-term deal, but it is hard to make that work. The pop-up shop presents a great opportunity that benefits both the Landlord and the tenants as we fill a vacant shop, and we give someone the chance to have a shop front in a prime retail location.
“Looking forward, we hope that the businesses are successful and secure a longer-term lease in the centre or local area. We also hope other landlords might see this initiative and copy this model in other areas to help support independent occupiers and avoid long-term vacancies.
“It has been great to work together with the council and Cascades Shopping Centre and shows how all stakeholders can support a positive initiative like the Portsmouth Pop Up.”
Businesses are invited to apply at portsmouth.gov.uk/pop-up
