INTERNATIONAL craft supplier, Crafter’s Companion is gearing up for a series of launch events at its new flagship store in Newton Aycliffe.
As part of the pre-launch events, the newly-elected Mayor, Cllr Jed Hillary and his wife will be attending a local business evening, intended to give the area’s business community the opportunity to preview the new store, on Wednesday 25th May.
The Deputy Mayor, Cllr Michael Dalton, will then open the store at a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10am on Friday 27th May, giving the public a first glimpse of the store before they can attend on Saturday for a number of make and take craft sessions and demonstrations.
There will also be a number of activities on the Friday after the ceremony.
The Newton Aycliffe-based store is the result of a £500,000 investment by the company and is expected to bring craft enthusiasts into the region, as well as allowing local crafters and those wishing to try the hobby for the first time a place where they can get to know the brand and interact with its products.
Sara Davies, founder of Crafter’s Companion said: “It’s great to finally see our plans come to life. The new store looks amazing and we can’t wait to show our visitors.
“A lot of hard work has gone into getting our flagship store ready for the series of launch events and the team has done a fantastic job.
“The store will be a great way for people to try their hand at craft, get involved in workshops led by some extremely talented people and of course get to know our brand and our products a little better.
“We look forward to welcoming the public on Friday for the ribbon-cutting ceremony and again on the Saturday to take part in the various activities throughout the day.”
Along with housing several themed shopping areas, such as papercraft, sewing, haberdashery, home décor and art, the 7,000 sq ft store also has a coffee shop, a central hub for workshops and group sessions and two dedicated demonstration areas where visitors can learn more about craft.
The store, which is located next to the business’ new corporate headquarters, at Aycliffe Business Park, has not only created a North East haven for crafters, but also allowed the company to take on a further 21 staff members.
For more information, visit www.crafterscompanion.co.uk.