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Get To Know Local Business

Shop Hartlepool Blog

Welcome to the Shop Hartlepool blog, a great place to find out more about the amazing businesses signed up to Shop Hartlepool.

We want to shout about Hartlepool’s success stories and introduce you to the new kids on the block. You’ll find behind the scenes articles about local businesses alongside regular updates and news from the Shop Hartlepool team. 

We are always looking for great stories, so if you want to to be featured, or know a business who would, get in touch using the button below.   

Discover the Market Hall

Middleton Grange Shopping Centre Manager, Mark Rycraft recently approached us to tell us about the fantastic business located within the Market Hall. Mark spoke passionately about what the retailers have to offer, the people behind the business and the recent work to improve the Market Hall facilities. 

We jumped at the idea of a Market Hall series, seeing it as a fantastic opportunity to shed a light on the business owners and what they offer. We have since featured 3 businesses, just some of the retailers you can find in the Market Hall. We are hoping that by featuring some of the businesses, next time you are out and about you’ll take a look at what these businesses have to offer. 

The Market Hall is a hidden gem of Middleton Grange located on the first floor of the centre. The Market Hall is easy to find, clearly signposted and just along from major retailer Home Bargains. You’ll find easy access with lifts and escalators close by and multiple disabled access entrances. 

There is also a seating area which is a great place to relax and enjoy a cuppa!

Let us introduce you to the three businesses who kindly walked us around and introduced us to their business. 

Soap & Soul

Soap & Soul was our first stop in the Market Hall. We spoke to owner Melaine about her family-run business offering a wide range of products, perfect for a personal treat or thoughtful gift.

They’ve grown from strength to strength, having expanded their premises in the Market Hall 3 times over the years. They are eco-conscious at the heart of their business, with many of their products being fair trade and as ecologically friendly as possible. 

You’ll be in awe of the colours, designs and variety on offer. There is truly something for everyone. 

They’ve made shopping local a personal, affordable experience. Their conscious effort to remain eco-friendly is further evidence of their hard work to make their business the best it possibly can be for their customers.

Us 4 Books

Our next stop was to visit Us 4 Books, located directly opposite Soap & Soul. We spoke to co-owner Sue about her business of over 15 years, selling predominantly pre-loved books. 

Us 4 Books have an extensive offering meaning you’ll be spoilt for choice. Shopping their business is a great way to make reading affordable and environmentally friendly. 

We couldn’t believe the variety of books, puzzles and handmade gifts available from Us 4 Books.  The sense of community and the passion was clear when we spoke to Sue. She spoke to us about the importance of supporting small businesses like hers.

“We always need new customers, if just a few more people come into the market hall instead of using the internet, it would help small businesses like us ” – Sue, Us 4 Books

C&H Carpets

Last but by no means least, we visited C&H Carpets. They are a well established local carpet shop and fitting service in Hartlepool.

Owner Mark spoke fondly of his work, taking pride in their longstanding family business and their vast offerings to their customers. He showed us around their stall, explaining everything they have to offer. You’ll be spoilt for choice when you visit C&H we can promise you that!

You don’t have to worry about a thing when you choose a local business like C&H Carpets. They’ll take care of everything for you and will offer friendly advise to help you make the best purchase. 

They supply everything you can think of from carpets, vinyl, rugs, laminates and more. They know how quickly trends can change and with their years of experience are ready to adapt quickly!

As you browse the area, you’ll be welcomed by incredibly friendly business owners who are happy to help and passionate about what they do. You will find everything from a Carpet Shop to a Butchers. We were surprised just how many businesses there are, each offering something special and unique.

We hope that our mini-series has inspired you to take a look inside the Market Hall sometime soon. You’ll be greeted by welcoming people and brilliant businesses. The perfect way to support your local community.

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