Gift store Maybugs co-owners, Greg Rose and John Dale, have opened the first floor of their Eastbourne store to local and UK based artisan producers – at no cost – with the producers keeping 100% of what they sell, and the market a permanent fixture.
“This is something which has been in planning for a long time, so to see it open and bustling with customers is just a great feeling,” enthused Greg. “John and I desperately wanted to do something for all the small local producers who have struggled in the current climate to get their product into retail, and using the first floor of our high street store in Eastbourne seemed the perfect location.”
He continued: “When we were starting out with Maybugs, we were given so many opportunities and help that this is our way of paying forward the favour. We hope that locals and tourists alike will love the concept, a permanent base in the town where shoppers will find a variety of what Sussex and the UK has to offer.”
The type of product and traders at the market will vary from week to week, with giftware currently on display including handmade jewellery, printed textiles, vintage silk flowers, hand painted glass, oil paintings, scented candles and wax melts. Some local producers have already committed to taking stand space until Christmas.
Eastbourne is one of three Maybugs gift stores, with other locations in Bexhill-on-Sea and Hailsham.
Top: Maybugs co-owners Greg Rose (left) and John Dale have opened an artisan market on the first floor of their Eastbourne store.
