Transformed former Debenhams store inside the Treaty Centre offers new retail space for local businesses
Published: Tuesday, 11th April 2023
Hounslow Council is encouraging local businesses and entrepreneurs to access discounted retail space in the heart of Hounslow’s town centre.
The top floor of the former Debenhams store inside the Treaty Centre has been transformed into, the Loft Hounslow, a multi-purpose creative hub and marketplace for entrepreneurs, traders, and independent businesses.
All products will be purchased through a central till system, with weekly sales reports provided to each trader, and total sales deposited to their account monthly. This alleviates the burden of setting up sales equipment and handling cash, allowing traders to focus on the parts of their business that really matter. Operating on the high street is traditionally time consuming for business owners which is why the Marketplace is staffed by The Loft employees, meaning retailers are not required to be onsite.
There are a variety of trading spaces available, from tabletop size to full sized unit plots with prices starting from £80 per month plus commission.
Councillor Tom Bruce, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Development said:
“The Loft is a fantastic new initiative to bring empty high street space back to life.
“We know from listening to businesses and communities that there is a lack of affordable spaces for start-ups, yet because of the pandemic and cost of living crisis an increase in vacant spaces across the borough.
“We are committed to unlocking these vacant retail spaces such as the Loft, which not only enhances leisure experiences but provides a boost to the local economy.”
The Deputy Mayor for Planning, Regeneration and Skills, Jules Pipe, said:
“This impressive transformation of an empty department store into a multipurpose hub for independent businesses is great news for Hounslow’s town centre and a terrific example of how to transform large legacy buildings.
“The Loft will attract new start-ups and retailers, creating more job opportunities for the local community and help secure a sustainable and successful retail destination for the wider area. This kind of regeneration will ensure a better, fairer, more prosperous London for all.”
The Loft also includes creative space for community groups and local charities to access and support residents. The Loft is supported by Hounslow Council, the Mayor of London's High Streets for All Challenge Fund, Treaty Shopping Centre, and The Arts Centre, Hounslow.
Find out more or register your interest to trade in the Loft by visiting: www.thelofthounslow.co.uk
If you have any questions about starting your trading journey at the Loft, email hello@meanwhileculturecollective.com
