Romiley Bookshop makes a powerful entrance following Start Up Loan

Serenity Booksellers, an independent family-owned bookshop located in Romiley, has made a strong start since its opening in April 2023, thanks to a £50,000 Start Up Loan from the British Business Bank. Founded by Kelly and Chris Willocks in November 2022, this bookstore is dedicated to catering to the passions of book enthusiasts and aims to rekindle a sense of community in local retail.

Overcoming initial financial challenges, the business successfully secured a £50,000 loan, with £25,000 allocated to each director, from GC Business Finance, a Business Support Partner affiliated with the British Business Bank's Start Up Loans program. Their funding was swiftly approved within a week, enabling the couple to secure a lease, renovate their premises, acquire essential stock, and cover legal expenses.

Serenity Booksellers has quickly evolved into a vibrant community hub. In June 2023, the store hosted its first book club, attracting 15 enthusiastic members who engaged in lively discussions. The bookstore also organized an author event in July 2023, featuring the acclaimed author of 'Atomic Blonde,' Anthony Johnston. The event included a book signing, Q&A session, and the introduction of his new book, 'Dog Sitter Detective.' These events have further solidified Serenity Booksellers' reputation as a gathering place for book lovers and literary enthusiasts in Romiley.

In addition to promoting the literary community, Serenity Booksellers actively supports local artists and makers by providing them with space to sell an extensive range of handmade and designed gifts, crafts, prints, greeting cards, and books. Collaborations with local businesses, such as the Romiley Forum Theatre, a 500-seat venue, are set to pave the way for exciting joint events and cultural experiences in the future. Serenity Booksellers envisions a dynamic business ecosystem where collaboration with nearby bars, coffee shops, and other retailers mutually supports each other.

Over the coming year, Serenity Booksellers has ambitious plans to double its team, further solidify partnerships with local businesses, and firmly establish its position in the North West literary community. The dedication and enthusiasm of the founders, Kelly and Chris Willocks, and the warm reception from the community, are driving Serenity Booksellers toward a promising and vibrant future as a cherished fixture in Romiley.

Chris Willocks at Serenity Booksellers, said: “Serenity Booksellers has become a hub for engaging conversations about books, recommendations, and literary discoveries. Witnessing the joy that reading brings as young children and adults alike are becoming excited about books has been one of the most rewarding aspects of this journey.

“The Start Up Loans investment has been instrumental in transforming our dream of owning a bookshop into a reality. Whilst we only opened a few weeks ago, we’ve already seen a steady influx of customers, with an ever-growing base of loyal patrons. We have been overwhelmed by the support and enthusiasm from the community, who will be joining us at our official launch event in July.”

Alex Mearns, Head of Start Up Lending at GC Business Finance, said: “Serenity Booksellers serves as a testament to the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit in the North, and we are proud to have played a part in their journey. The founders' vision, dedication, and passion for creating a unique and accessible community bookstore have resonated with both book lovers and the Romiley community.”

Sophie Dale-Black, UK Network Director, North West England at the British Business Bank, added: “We strongly believe in the importance of investing in the Northern start-up economy, and Serenity Booksellers exemplifies the incredible potential that exists in the region. By providing the necessary funding and support, we have witnessed the transformation of a vacant property into a thriving literary haven. The bookstore's commitment to fostering a sense of community, promoting local artists, and collaborating with neighbouring businesses truly sets it apart.”