A new pop-up outlet in Liverpool ONE run by MerseyMade will sell the work of local artists and artisans from across Liverpool city region. Tony McDonough reports
Liverpool ONE is hosting a new pop-up outlet to showcase independent brands from across Liverpool city region.
MerseyMade, which in 2019 set up a permanent shop and creative hub for local makers in Paradise Street, will run the 3,200 sq ft pop-up which is located on Peter’s Lane. It will be open until the end of January before moving to another pop-up in Manesty’s Lane.
Established by Vicky Gawith and Jenny Dunlop, MerseyMade showcases and sells the work of a selection of artisans from the Merseyside region.
Items include original artworks, handmade cushions and bags, baby accessories and bath products, by artists including Jenny Dunlop, graphic artist Sophie Green, and textile specialist, Alistair McCready.
Its permanent base, in the Grade II-listed Chancery House, is home to a shop, cafe, artists’ studios and space for events. Every ‘maker’s features, including bakers, crafters, illustrators, painters and jewellers, is located within 50 miles of its postcode.
Jenny Dunlop, creative director of MerseyMade, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the success of MerseyMade Liverpool ONE, with the gallery introducing so many new customers to so many local artists and artisans.
“The ability of Liverpool ONE to amplify our business is significant, and has been a great boost to the region’s creative community.”
Liverpool ONE has also collaborated with Lone Design Club to create LDC Activates, a creative initiative that utilises the façade of the soon-to-be Cricket flagship store. It has replaced traditional vinyls with tech-enabled windows using QR code surveys to capture customer sentiment.
This provides a cost effective alternative to traditional hoardings that adds significant value to Liverpool ONE’s marketing and understanding of visitors.
Chris Jukes, Liverpool ONE director at Grosvenor, added: “Innovation and independents have always played a role in the success of Liverpool ONE, creating additional reasons to visit, building engagement with consumers, and supporting the local community.
“MerseyMade has proved incredibly popular, but is just the beginning for 2023. We will be introducing more pop-ups throughout the year to complement the established, and highly successful, retail, food and drink, and leisure offer at Liverpool ONE.”