The experience

The Theatre Shop has successfully implemented several projects to improve its facilities and audience experience.

These projects include:

1. Shopfront Lighting: Installation of three window display units, and a light for the theatre sign above the shop front. This has improved visibility, attracted attention, and increased footfall and ticket sales.
2. Coffee Machine and Ice-Cream Freezer: Adding these amenities has widened the refreshment offerings, especially for daytime and parent/child audiences, thereby improving the experience for local audiences and visiting performers and increasing bar sales.
3. Water Heater, Sink, and Glass Washer: Installing these facilities has improved sustainability by eliminating disposable plastic glasses and replacing them with reusable glasses and a glass washing facility.

“The project has been very successful, receiving lots of positive feedback from both audiences and volunteers”, Mike Graham, Chair of the Theatre Shop, stated.

The improved facilities, especially the ability to offer coffees and ice creams, have been particularly well-received. Additionally, the move from disposable to reusable plastic glasses has garnered positive feedback. The sign lighting and display have significantly improved the visibility of The Theatre Shop.

The legacy of these improvements is the enhanced experience for both audiences and volunteers, contributing to the theatre’s long-term success and sustainability.

The experience

“The rebranding and refit has been hugely successful, drawing in new customers and businesses”, Laura noted.

The upgraded kitchen facilities also allowed Mustard Cafe to extend their offerings to corporate and event catering, which had previously been limited by space and staffing constraints. The project left a lasting legacy, establishing Mustard Cafe as a local hub and a key player in the community.

Laura reflected, “The feeling you get when you have happy customers showing you support makes it all worthwhile.”

The experience

The implementation of the LCD screens has significantly enhanced the customer experience at Walker & Ling. The screens display a carousel of high-quality images and videos, including a store map, drone flythroughs, and information about the store’s history and accessibility features.

“The new screens have made a huge difference in how we engage with our customers,” says Sam. “They provide a modern touch to our traditional store and help us communicate more effectively with our visitors”.

The project not only improved the store’s aesthetic appeal but also contributed to its long-term growth and sustainability. The legacy of this project lies in its ability to blend modern technology with the store’s rich history, ensuring that Walker & Ling remains a beloved fixture in the community for years to come.

The experience

Reflecting on his entrepreneurial journey, Sam emphasised the freedom and fulfilment of owning his business. His advice for aspiring entrepreneurs includes thorough market research, budgeting generously, and leveraging local support networks like the hive and the council.
With a strong foundation in place, Fat Head Brewery is poised for growth. Sam envisions expanding the brewery’s capacity and increasing distribution to reach a wider audience.

The experience

When asked what advice Laura would give to others considering starting their own business, she spoke of “The biggest challenge has been attracting new clients beyond my existing network. Underestimating the importance of constant relationship building and networking, which can consume a day a week, has been a key lesson”