Traders bank on ‘experience’ in bid to attract new shoppers

Shopkeepers and residents in the Hillsborough area of Sheffield said they wanted to highlight the “personal service and quality products on offer” with the new Experience Hillsborough initiative.

Organisers said the project was unique in the way the public, private and voluntary sectors were working together with the united aim of revitalising the area.

Coun Helen Mirfin-Boukouris, Sheffield Council’s business spokesman, said the authority was supporting the project and added: “Hillsborough can offer everything for the ideal shopping experience.

“Where else can you find family-run butchers, fishmongers and fruit and vegetable shops alongside highly recommended restaurants and top quality art and craft galleries?”

Maxine Hayton, who runs Sheffield Blinds in Hillsborough, added: “We get to know our customers and provide a personal service, in a way that the large multiple stores cannot do.”

James Megaw of nearby ChocoLatte Cafe said: “We offer the complete shopping experience of a traditional high street without the crowds and long queues.”