New Cleveleys shop draws hundreds of shoppers on first day

A new department store on Cleveleys high street attracted more than 1,500 shoppers, even before its official launch.

The new Millstores, the first in the UK, has taken over the 13,000 sq ft premises vacated by Wilko.

This new venture by Simon Yates and Jon Addis, who own Ena Mill in Atherton and The Courtyard in Tarleton, marks the strategic expansion of their retail footprint and has created 25 jobs.

The store will feature fashion, footwear, bedding, homeware, gifts, and more departments.

The first day of trading was supposed to be a 'soft launch' before an official VIP opening, yet a queue had formed outside before the doors had opened.

Simon Yates, co-owner of Millstores, said: "It’s standard practice to open quietly. It helps you iron out any issues before the major opening. It’s called a ‘soft launch’ in the trade. But with over 1500 shoppers, today was anything but a soft launch! We had hundreds of people in the store!

“We wanted to let Cleveleys residents be the first to experience Millstores. We’ve been planning and training to transform the store into something special. We are so grateful to everyone who visited us and the staff team who coped admirably. It’s been an amazing day."

Jon Addis, co-owner, added: "The support from the Cleveleys community - retail and shoppers alike—has been overwhelming. There is always an element of risk with any new store. But with so many people turning up today, we are sure we have made the right decision to open the first-ever Millstores here in Cleveleys.

“But now the hard work continues. We’re working our socks off to deliver another great shopping experience that Cleveleys deserves."

The premises' redesign, which cost over £150,000, includes significant changes such as new signage and a reconfigured layout. This layout places the checkout counters on the side to create a more open and inviting entrance, enhancing the overall shopping experience.

Millstores will remain open for local residents. This soft launch will allow the community to experience the store before a VIP opening celebration, which will be held on a date to be confirmed.