The Square Camberley has launched their ‘Be Independent’ campaign, seeking one lucky independent entrepreneur who will win the chance to trade at the shopping centre.
Many entrepreneurs find it challenging to expand their businesses and, in conjunction with Surrey Heath Borough Council, the ‘Be Independent’ campaign aims to encourage local entrepreneurs to build upon their current independent business, and trade within the Camberley shopping centre between November 2019 and April 2020.
Targeting both independent and pop-up stores, the ‘Be Independent’ campaign is now inviting businesses to pitch to win the opportunity to trade.
Businesses can submit their application by filling in the application form and sending it via email to [email protected], or delivering it to the Customer Service Desk at The Square.
Entries will close on Sunday 15th September, and a panel of judges will review each business plan individually. Applicants with the highest scores will then be shortlisted and invited to present their businesses to the judging panel.
Once chosen and announced, the winning business/businesses will be given an empty store to trade in at The Square, benefitting from mentorship from the centre management team. This includes window-dressing assistance, marketing help and costs associated to the unit covered as part of the campaign.
Glen Fulton, General Manager at The Square Camberley, said:
“We’re delighted to launch our entrepreneur campaign - ‘Be Independent’, in conjunction with Surrey Heath Borough Council. Following a successful pilot scheme, we’re keen to seek unique businesses which build upon Camberley’s attributes. We’re excited to be able to offer our vibrant space to one lucky entrepreneur, aiming to drive footfall and increase awareness of their business.”
Teresa Hogsbjerg, Economic Development Manager at Surrey Heath Borough Council, said:
“We are delighted to be supporting this retail experience with The Square. After the success of “Off The Grid” last Winter with artisan traders, this will be a really positive follow-on providing the full retail experience to a new or growth independent business. During what is a challenging time for our high streets, this is a positive opportunity for a space within a great location in Camberley to gain experience of a physical store and the growing vibrancy of our town.”
Michael Gove, MP for Surrey Heath, said:
“This is a fantastic campaign and opportunity for a local entrepreneur to expand their business. Small businesses are at the heart of our local economy, and I am particularly delighted to see support for growth on our high streets.”
