‘Ink-credible’ upsizing for independent tattoo business at Gateshead Metrocentre

Local, independent tattoo and piercing business, Doc Black Ink has been celebrating success as it upsizes into the main mall at Metrocentre Gateshead after 14 years.

The business, formerly known as Doc Black, has moved into its 1,480 sq ft unit on the first floor of Exhibition Square, located across the mall from Primark. The new Doc Black Ink studio, which is double the size of its original Metrocentre unit in The Village, will be the only tattoo and piercing studio in the UK to be featured in a main shopping centre mall.

The experts at the studio will provide North East customers with various services including tattoos, tattoo removal, piercings, skin laser treatment and semi-permanent make-up. The studio will also offer a wide selection of body jewellery and accessories.

Speaking on the launch, owner of Doc Black Ink, Phil Crampton commented: “When Doc Black originally started out as a gothic and alternative clothing store in Metrocentre’s Village back in 2008, it was the first of its kind with only four members of staff.

“After operating and serving our loyal customers for 14 years, we could never have imagined the scale on which we would grow! Doc Black Ink has grown to be a recognisable business across the North East and we are lucky to be a household name to the wider community in the region.

“This success as a local, independent business is owed to our amazing staff and family who all have a genuine passion for the brand. We are constantly reviewing the latest trends to meet the ever-changing needs of our customers and can’t wait to see what the future holds for us!”

Ben Cox, Metrocentre senior asset manager, added: “Doc Black Ink’s move to Exhibition Square is one of a number of successful independent businesses upgrading their offer at Metrocentre. Recently we’ve also welcomed the upsize and relocation of The Glasses Factory, Chuckling Cheese and APN Sports Nutrition to the Blue Mall.

“Doc Black Ink highlights the diversity of Metrocentre’s mix of independent retailers, high street favourites and international brands, and we look forward to seeing the business grow and develop in its new location.”

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