As the new year is upon us, here are the 12 businesses that have opened their doors to customers during 2022.
It may have been a difficult time to set up shop – with the continuing recovery from the pandemic and the rising cost of living – but these businesses have made it their mission to be a positive contribution to the town.
From a renovated portable horsebox cafe situated in Harlestone Firs, to social media sensation Butterwick Bakery taking the town by storm, we have seen newbies across all sectors.
Have you opened an independent business this year in Northampton that is not on this list? Email [email protected].
5. Electric Pavilion
Back in April, cocktail bar and restaurant Electric Pavilion opened at the top of Gold Street. The establishment has since prided itself on good quality food and drink, and investing in young people in the town. Its aim has been to play a key role in pushing great local produce, and they will no doubt hope to continue that in 2023. Photo: Kirsty Edmonds
6. Aramintas
In April, Indian restaurant Aramintas opened in Wellingborough Road after a successful takeaway venture in Yardley Hastings. To meet the demands of the business, they believed it was best to move to the outskirts of the town centre. The restaurant was “honoured and privileged” to host Mayor Dennis Meredith’s two charity events this year, as they have a long-standing relationship with the well-known town figure. Photo: Logan Macleod
7. Feather Robins Gifts
A gift shop was the latest edition to St Crispin Retail Village in September. Feather Robins Gifts, located in Kent Road, had an overwhelmingly positive start to its venture, and strived to become the home of a variety of products from other independent businesses across the county. Owner Lindsey is not the only one who can be found in the shop, as her bulldog Humphrey has been a permanent fixture from Tuesday to Friday every week. Photo: Feather Robins Gifts
8. Vins and Bieres
Vins and Bieres, St Giles’ Street’s very own flagship wine and beer shop, opened in January – being the first of its kind to hit the United Kingdom. Northampton-born Harriet and her French husband Florian returned to the town to open the store after living together for years in Bordeaux, France. The shop, better known as V and B, has been a hit in the town – often thriving with people and music in their outdoor seating area. Photo: Kirsty Edmonds