A NEWPORT trader hopes to expand a vintage and retro shop into an 'emporium' featuring a barber’s and coffee shop.
Christopher Baldwin, owner of The Black Bear Vintage Emporium brand, has taken over the vintage and retro section of the shop at the Friends of St Anne’s Hospice charity shop, in Commercial Street, which has moved downstairs.
An ex-manager at New Bridges Specialist Care, Mr Baldwin is hoping to group together with other businesses to open an emporium at a new premises which would include a barber’s and coffee shop.
“We have had a positive response from customers who have been very accommodating,” said Mr Baldwin, 35, of Oakfield Road, Newport.
He added: “I was born and bred in Newport and I remember when the city centre was struggling but it is on the up now and new ventures can only be good for local businesses and the city.”
Laura Buchanan-Smith, manager and volunteer at Friends of St Anne’s Hospice charity shop, said she was grateful for Mr Baldwin’s help in expanding the vintage section of shop.
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