YE OLDE WILKINSONS SPELLS MAGIC AT ITS RE-LAUNCH

Customers were treated to a magical day at the re-opening of the Wilkinson store, situated in the Weston Favell Shopping Centre, on Thursday 12th May, as six members of the original store team officially launched the value home and garden retailer’s re-vamped premises.

Darren Beaufoy, Marie Collis, Cat Miller, Fiona Bates, Sue White and Jenny James, joined Wilkinsons’ head of retail, Simon Hathway, and store manager, Ian Macdonald, in cutting the ceremonial ribbon and declaring the store officially re-open – marking the start to the medieval and magical themed event.

Following the re-opening ceremony, shoppers streamed excitedly into the store, eager to find out if they had won a prize in the free tombola, while staff members hosted a raffle, to raise funds for Anthony Nolan, Wilkinsons’ charity of the year. One lucky winner walked away with a jam packed hamper full of seasonal goodies, including picnic products and BBQ equipment.

Magician and musician, Nathaniel Bagshot, entertained customers throughout the day, with tricks and tunes from the 19th Century.

Store manager, Ian Macdonald, commented: “We couldn’t have asked for a better re-launch. The ceremonial ribbon cutting set the day off with a flying start by unveiling the store’s new look and the medieval entertainer was a real crowd pleaser.”

Celebrations continued on Saturday 14th May, when delicious summer cakes, including fruit tarts and apple strudels, were handed out to shoppers, and a face painter was in store from 10am to 4pm, transforming children into a variety of colourful creatures.

The Weston Favell store’s fresh new look was completed as part of a national initiative by Wilkinsons to invest in local towns. Customers will now find it easier to navigate through the store, with clearer pricing and displays and a much brighter shopping environment with extended product ranges.

Still a family owned firm after 80 years of trading, Wilkinsons has 352 stores across the UK, selling over 25,000 product lines. Wilkinsons is committed to Britain’s high streets and is an active supporter of local charities, community groups and care organisations.