An independent, family-owned cycle shop in Penrith is on the shortlist of retailers in the running to be named Britain’s Best Small Shop of 2018.
Arragons Cycle Centre, which has been in the town’s high street for 50 years, established a Tri Club ten years ago that is now run by its members, has been expanded to accommodate a growing bike offering. It is also one of only 40 official Shimano Service Centres in the UK.
The Best Small Shops competition, managed by the Independent Retailers Confederation (IRC) sponsored by booost, the brand new loyalty, gift and promotions app for independent retailers and their customers, celebrates the commitment and creativity of independent retailers on the UK’s High Streets and the central role they play in their local communities. The winner will be announced at an event at the Houses of Parliament on November 13th.
“As a business, we’re at the heart of the community supporting events, entertaining local clubs & groups with maintenance evenings,” explains owner Sarah Graham.
“We host several weekly road & MTB rides from our shop, welcoming anyone who wants to enjoy a ride. Our store manager, Chris, is also trained and experienced at fitting customers to their bikes using Physiohaus-inspired techniques.”
“Despite all of the bad headlines and the high-profile closures of larger stores, we firmly believe that specialist independent retailers can thrive in this climate by delivering a truly unique retail experience,” explains Mark Walmsley, Chairman of the Independent Retailers Confederation.
“The Best Small Shops competition enables us celebrate this unique industry, the passion, service, flexibility and knowledge of independent shop owners offer and show customers what makes independent retailers so special.”
