The Business Engagement Team recently visited a delightful shop located in Marske Square — Vintage by the Sea, owned by Clare Smith. This charming business was featured on the popular BBC TV show Antiques Road Trip last year and is set to appear again next year!
We had the pleasure of chatting with Clare to learn more about her business.
Tell us about your business
“We are an antique and vintage shop. We sell antiques and vintage items, including furniture, jewellery, vinyl’s and collectibles.
How long have you been operating?
We opened the shop in April 2023, the stock has improved ever since and will continue to do so.
What made you choose to set up in Redcar & Cleveland?
“I live in Saltburn and as I was looking to set up the business within the Borough, I came across this area of shops in Marske square, it seemed that a few businesses were opening in this area and it felt like a vibrant shopping area that footfall was improving with new businesses setting up in the area too. When I saw the premises becoming available, I took the opportunity as quickly as I could got it as it seemed like a great spot.”
How did you find support from the Business Engagement Team?
“I contacted your team before I opened the shop in April 2023, I received some great advice from your team which was very helpful.”
What advice in particular did you receive which you found helpful?
“It was about setting up the business right from the start, I received lots of good advice about accounts, social media and I was signposted to the appropriate sources for my type of Business to obtain the necessary information as well providing support along the way, this helped me overall to get up and running.”
Do you have any future plans for your business?
“We’re looking into exciting new opportunities with ventures that could help us reach more people and boost our sales.”
