North East family business bucks coronavirus trend to open new store in Newcastle

A North East family retailer has opened a new high street store in the centre of Newcastle.

Despite retailers closing shops across high streets up and down the country, home fragrance and gift retailer Collectables has opened its 9th high street store in Monument Mall on Blackett Street, employing seven new staff.

Collectables joins Kiehl’s, White Company, Fat Face, Boss, and Reiss in the historic Grade II listed building.

David Lewis, managing director, said: “We are confident enough to open a new store in a prime city centre location, and we are growing our online outlets thanks to our focus on ranges which are very much at the forefront of people’s minds – home fragrances and accessories, comfort and wellbeing.

“It’s been a hard year for retailers but thanks to good sales online and in stores, and the benefit of temporary business rates relief, we have increased our staff headcount in 2020.”

Founded in 1985, the chain currently employs 60 people across its stores with a bricks and mortar presence in the Metrocentre, Sunderland, and Middlesbrough, as well as several other locations.

Collectables also has an online presence, selling items through Amazon and Facebook.

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