People who have started up online businesses in the Dunstable area are being invited to pop up in a temporary high street shop.
An organisation called PopUp Britain, part of national enterprise campaign StartUp Britain, will be popping up in an empty shop in Ashton Square on September 19.
Up to four retailers will share the space and rent for between two and four weeks.
Emma Jones, StartUp Britain co-founder, said: “Our aim is to give the growing number of online retail start-ups a chance to test out their products in a physical high street environment, talking to their customers face-to-face and getting a feel for demand.
“Our shops not only provide a new shopping experience in the short term, and a buzz to the high street, they also bring a meaningful boost to the local economy for the long term.”
The shop will be the first in Beds, Herts and Bucks.
The pop-up shop will run for three months and new start-up retailers will share the space for between two and four weeks. The shop has the capacity to house four firms. Retailers will range from fashion to home wares, to gifts and chocolates.
The shops reflect the trend that more than 70 per cent of businesses are now started and run from home.
The day-to-day running of the shop will be the responsibility of Dunstable Town Council. Councillor Terry Colbourne of Dunstable Town Council said: “PopUp Dunstable is an exciting opportunity for small businesses that don’t have a presence on Dunstable’s High Street to give it a go at minimum cost and risk.”
Local businesses interested in taking part should call 01582 513000 or email info@dunstable.gov.uk or visit www.popupbritain.com/apply