Victoria James grows into Christmas
This Christmas is looking to be a busy one for independent retailer, Victoria James, as the store prepares to transform its new, larger premises in Telford Shopping Centre ready for the busy holiday period. 
Owners, Michael and Ann Haines, started their vintage style furniture and home accessories business from a small stall in the shopping centre back in July 2011. Their products proved extremely popular and by November 2011 they had moved into their first store.
The success story hasn’t stopped there as they recently moved into premises over three times the size of their old store.
As sales continue to grow, Victoria James has hired a new employee – Michael and Ann’s very first customer when they opened their previous store! Jennifer Buttery, from Ketley Bank, liked the the products so much that she jumped at the chance to work for the company in its bigger, brighter, better store.
The increased space has allowed Victoria James to stock nearly double its range of ‘shabby-chic’ style accessories and furniture, providing even more choice for customers. The range of stock is expected to increase again in the run up to Christmas with unique and alternative gifts for all the family.
Michael Haines said: “We’re so excited to have moved to the bigger store. It has given us the opportunity to expand our ranges and even introduce entirely new products such as the fantastic BoBo Buddies, featured on BBC’s Dragon’s Den are set to be a sure fire hit on children’s Christmas lists this year.
“The response from shoppers has been overwhelming. Our existing customers love the extra products and new customers can’t believe they haven’t stumbled across us before. My wife Ann, and I are understandably thrilled about the new store.”
Just as the team has settled into the premises, the store will undergo a festive transformation on Friday (8th November) in time for the exciting pre-Christmas period at Telford Shopping Centre.
Chris Jones, Centre Director said: “Victoria James’s expansion is fantastic news for both them and the Centre. I believe the key to Michael and Ann’s success is that they look to source products which you can’t buy elsewhere in Telford which of course makes the store a popular destination with shoppers looking for that special gift.
“Independent retailers add something extra to a shopping experience and are equally as important as the big name brands and we are thrilled to support their continued growth and success.”
For more information, please visit www.telfordshopping.co.uk.