First choice labels sold second hand
Nov 11 2009 by Sue Scott, Evening Gazette
STOCKTON’S Wellington Square sees a new concept in retailing opening today.
Wardrobe, the brainchild of 21-year-old Jade Stephenson, was started with a £60,000 boost from retail centre operators Stenham and landlords Park Lane Estate after the Wynyard entrepreneur and former M&S fashion assistant won a £60,000 retail competition backed by the Gazette.
Jade, who transformed the 674 sq ft former perfume shop with help from dad Paul and mum Annette, hit on the idea for a “high street eBay” after being dissatisfied with clothes she’d bought online.
The principle of being able to pass on hardly worn fashion items for cash, coupled with the swapping craze created by Twiggy’s TV frock exchange, convinced her that a business could be built on the same lines.
A judging panel, led by Darlington’s Duncan Bannatyne, agreed and they awarded her the keys to the unit in September and gave her just eight weeks to get the shop up and running.
Adam Jaffe, investment manager for centre operators and ShopStart competition sponsor Stenham, said Jade’s retail idea suited the economic climate.
“We are sure that her business will be a welcome addition to the shopping centre and we wish her every success.”
Wardrobe, which takes 50% of an item’s sale price, returning half to the seller, accepts high street and designer fashion labels. Stock which does not sell is collected by the vendor or given to charity.
SEE tomorrow’s Shopping page for further details.
