A new "indie" marketplace has opened in Kent as part of an initiative aimed at boosting the profile of local traders this Christmas.

Entrepreneur Tillie Peel created the Pop-Up Club in 2017 as a cost-effective means for independent artists and small brands to sell their wares – and has opened her latest branch in Bluewater Shopping Centre, near Dartford.

The 28-year-old, who started out as a market stall holder herself, got the idea for her business after noticing the growing number of underused spaces on the high street.

Her company helps feel the void by organising artisan markets in empty retail units and creating a space for local traders and side hustlers to showcase and sell their crafts, clothing and accessories.

So far the nationwide initiative has permanent sites operating in Brighton, Chelmsford, Manchester and London.

Now the Essex entrepreneur has launched her latest shopping haven at Bluewater Shopping Centre in the run up to Christmas.

The "pop-up" shop opened on Saturday on the Rose Gallery Upper Mall, next to John Lewis.

It will be open to the public until Christmas Eve and will showcase more than 30 small businesses, stocking goods ranging from candles, kids and babies gifts to jewellery, artwork and unique homeware.

Founder Tillie Peel said: “Bluewater is a great location for us and for our small traders to meet shoppers and to encourage the shop small and local ethos, which can see a huge boost to the local economy.

"This year, we expect to see shoppers out in full force compared to last year when there were still restrictions in place stopping that in-person connection we all value.”

She added: “With Christmas shopping now firmly on people’s minds, we want to help and encourage shoppers to remember that supporting local businesses can have a huge impact at this time of year."

Bluewater has seen a recent influx of stores aimed at promoting a shop local ethos.

Last month saw the first general store by Amazon open outside the US – which has a dedicated section to local products – open inside the Greenhithe mall.

A shop selling food and drink products made by businesses across Kent also opened its doors.

The "Pop-Up club" will be open to shoppers from 10am until 6pm Monday to Saturday and also 11am until 5pm on Sundays.

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