Swindon & Wiltshire News
Young entrepreneurs launch businesses at Chippenham’s Emery Gate
Chippenham’s Emery Gate shopping centre has welcomed two new independent businesses managed by young entrepreneurs – Liquidz Vapes and Trapped Barbershop.
Liquidz Vapes is managed by 19 year-old Noah McKenna, who saw the potential growth of the industry after working at a vape company.
After discussing the idea with his parents, his father James agreed to launch the business under the Liquidz.Com branding in 2020 and they opened their first store in Emery Gate in late December 2022.
“Our priority was to find an indoor location with good footfall that would help enhance brand awareness,” explained Noah.
“The response so far has been fantastic and we aim to keep the shop fresh, changing products to fit customer demand. We’re looking forward to building our brand this year with our store at Emery Gate being the main launchpad for our products.”
Trapped Barbershop was opened by 20 year-old Liam Ruck at the start of January and he’s been busy serving his new customers ever since.
“Once I get Trapped up and running I’m hoping to open other branches. As well as my customers, I do quite a bit of charity work with rough sleepers and offer free haircuts and someone to talk to.
“If things continue to go this well, I’ll be looking to hire another barber soon.”
Emery Gate was acquired by Acorn Property Group in August 2022 and currently has two vacant units out of a total of 27.
In December 2022, Springboard reported an increased footfall across UK retail of 5.8 per cent compared to November, whereas Emery Gate saw a lift of 15.7 per cent.
“At a time when high streets around the country are struggling to attract footfall, Emery Gate is a strong example of centres that are bucking the trend and are remaining resilient,” said Dane Cummings, head of commercial property at Acorn Property Group.
“The great start seen by both Liquidz Vapes and Trapped Barbershop are testament to their hard work and determination, as well as a reflection of the benefits that come from a well established shopping centre like this.”
