UpMargate, a retail concept that is aimed at attracting fledgling retailers, is fully let for the first time after signing up a vintage store.
LCP, the national commercial property and investment company which manages The Centre, where UpMargate is located, now has 12 retailers operating there.
Pie in the Sky vintage emporium will join other start-ups, including an art studio, sportswear shop, vintage furniture seller and handmade bags and clothes.
Owner of Pie in the Sky, Eisha Miah, said: “As a newcomer to the town, UpMargate was recommended to me by a friend. It can be very difficult to launch an effective small business with rental rates being so high, but the collaborative approach UpMargate takes seems perfect as I am able to keep costs down whilst still being able to grow my business. Better yet, it allows me to contribute to the growth of Margate and support other fellow creatives and small businesses from the area.”
Iain Minto, asset manager for LCP, which manages the site on behalf of landlord Evolve Estates, said: “Since we opened UpMargate in November 2019 we’ve been pleased to attract a great range of independent retailers and visitors who really love the whole idea of the creative maker-space.
“It’s a busy centre with high footfall, so ideal for local, independent traders who want to try out their business. I’m pleased to have signed up the last tenant and wish her every success in her new venture.”
UpMargate was the first of LCP’s Microshops concept. Each retail pod, which is let on an affordable, all-inclusive, flexible monthly contract, is also suitable for artists, craftspeople and designers.
LCP has launched Microshops in seven other towns where it owns and manages retail centres: Margate, Aldershot, Thornaby-on-Tees, Govan Cross, Airdrie, Penicuik and Ipswich.
All of the Microshops occupy vacated larger stores in LCP’s retail centres and have been carefully fitted out to create a modern and fun environment where occupiers can brand their own space.
