Collectables store now open in Northampton town centre as owner promises there is nowhere else like it
A new collectables store is now open at the heart of Northampton and the owner promises there is nowhere else like it across the town centre.
Gold Street Collectables launched on Monday September 1 and is now open from 10am until 5pm from Monday to Saturday each week.
Located at the rear of the cash exchange store at 52 Gold Street, there is an eclectic mix of original vinyl records, militaria, railwayana, sports items, posters and a whole range of collectables.
The business was founded by John Atkinson, Pete Harris and Will Packer, in the hope of offering something for everyone and to help people discover new niches of interest.
When asked why now was the ideal time to launch Gold Street Collectables, John told the Chronicle & Echo: “There’s a lot of cash converter shops around that only cater for electronics and they are more for the younger generation.
“I’ve been selling collectables for 30 years full-time on eBay and I have a warehouse in Northampton. We missed meeting people, having face-to-face banter and discussing collectables.”
The trio jumped at the chance to rent a shop on Gold Street when the opportunity arose, especially as they believe there is nowhere else like this in the town centre.
They were pleased to see a queue outside ahead of opening on Monday, and they believe that their shared location with Xchange 4 Cash will benefit everyone.
John said: “Although the stuff they sell is for a younger generation, they come into our shop and pass it onto their family members. It’s a good crossover.”
The co-founder believes Northampton is fast becoming the “vinyl record town” and hopes that with many stockists, people will go out of their way to travel here to make a day of it.
“They’re not just going to buy vinyl records,” said John. “On the walk up to the next shop, there will be cafes and other businesses along the way. People go to places for books as it’s a tourist attraction and a big shopping experience.”
John recently met with WNC deputy leader Councillor James Petter, who is also the cabinet member for local economy, culture and leisure, to discuss the importance of making Gold Street an attractive place to visit.
“It’s the main road into Northampton from the railway and it sticks in people’s minds,” said John, who is hopeful about the future of Gold Street and passionate about making a positive difference.