Trio of independent businesses create local jobs in Barnsley’s “flourishing” Glass Works

A dessert vendor, burger chain and specialist gift shop are the latest businesses set to move into The Glass Works in Barnsley, creating 37 jobs.

Dolly’s Desserts is to open a second town centre outlet adjacent to the new Cineworld, which opens later this month. A “true local success story”, the business now has 1.2 million followers on TikTok. Fronting The Glass Works public square, its brand new two-floor outlet will be in addition to its “hugely successful” kiosk in Market Kitchen.

Urban Burger, which runs a series of popular restaurants in Rotherham, Doncaster and Halifax, and Hidden Pretty Gifts, a boutique gift shop, will join them in neighbouring units as The Glass Works moves towards reaching full occupancy.

Janine Davies, who runs Dolly’s Desserts with her daughter Charlie said: “We have chosen to continue our expansion at home in Barnsley, as we feel The Glass Works development is the perfect fit for our brand and how we want to portray our business moving forwards,” said Janine, who runs Dolly’s Desserts with her daughter Charlie.

“It’s a fresh and exciting environment that is already attracting both young and old people back into the town centre. The opportunities the new unit will bring are huge.”

Mehmet Kent, who runs Urban Burger, and will create 25 jobs in Barnsley, added: “Barnsley will be our fifth store and it’s a big honour for us to be a part of The Glass Works development. As a local company, it’s great to have this opportunity and we’re excited to share our venue’s experience with locals.”

Daniella Monden from Hidden Pretty Gifts, commented: “It’s great that The Glass Works is providing a complementary mix of national brands and bespoke independents – it creates a rich shopping experience and something for everyone.

“This will be our second store and will create two new jobs. Our first store has been trading in Wakefield for eight years and we’re looking forward to bringing our exclusive, stylish gifts to Barnsley.”

Cllr Robert Frost, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, concluded: “Barnsley is quickly becoming a regional hotspot for launching and growing a business. There’s lots of free expert business support available for independent businesses, whether that’s to help scale up or to tap into niche sectors and digital marketplaces.

All three of the new businesses are planning to open their doors to the public this autumn.

By Matthew Neville – Correspondent, Bdaily

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