Independent retailers based around Merrion Centre in Leeds join forces during pandemic

TWO independent Yorkshire retailers are joining forces to ensure they keep thriving during the pandemic.
Rita Seman and Frank Jay.Rita Seman and Frank Jay.
Rita Seman and Frank Jay.

The Chilli Shop, which is based outside the Merrion Centre in Leeds on Merrion Street, is running a delivery service through its social media channels due to the current restrictions in place across Leeds, while neighbouring business Konga Coffee, which sells an Ethiopian brand of craft coffees, is operating a takeaway service.

A spokesman said: “The Chilli Shop has donated a variety of its hot sauces to the coffee house for customers to spice up their takeaway lunch and introduce new customers to their range of spicy condiments.”

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Frank Jay, Founder of the Chilli Shop said: “As a small independent business owner you respect and want to support your fellow local indie shops and cafes, and the collaboration with Konga Coffee is a great example of businesses coming together during the current climate.

“I don’t think a chilli shop has ever adopted a cafe before, although the cafe is currently so busy I now have to queue for my toasted panini and cappuccino.”

Rita Seman, owner of Konga Coffee said: “During challenging times it is great to see the Merrion community pulling together and we look forward to introducing our customers to the Chilli Shop’s hot sauces. During challenging times it is great to see the Merrion community pulling together and we look forward to introducing our customers to the Chilli Shop’s hot sauces."

James Broughton, Head of Marketing and PR at Town Centre Securities, the owner of the Merrion Centre said: “With the diverse mix of essential operators at the Merrion Centre we still have over 30 venues open or trading as click and collect operators during the current lockdown although it’s never been as important to ‘Shop Local’.

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"With this in mind it is great to see two of our most popular ‘indies’ working collaboratively and we are confident that this ‘hot’ partnership will put them even further on the map and continue to cement the Arena Quarter’s position as a key food destination in the heart of Leeds.”

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