The Launchpad Pop-Up Store brought fresh energy to Sheffield’s high street, offering a valuable platform for makers to trade, connect and grow during the busy festive season.
In the run-up to Christmas 2025, a once-vacant city centre unit was transformed into a vibrant retail destination that put local creative talent firmly in the spotlight.
The idea began with an email from Natasha Farrell, founder of creative jewellery and accessories brand Amani Kush, and Business Sheffield quickly brought it to life in a short space of time. Located in the former Monki store on Pinstone Street, the Launchpad Pop-Up Store offered a unique opportunity for early-stage makers and craft businesses to showcase their work, test new ideas and connect with shoppers during one of the busiest trading periods of the year. The project was funded by the government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund under the Launchpad Programme, with support from Sheffield BID.
For four weeks – from 27 November to 20 December – the store welcomed over 10,000 visitors and hosted 31 local traders, each bringing their own flair to the curated space. The shop opened every Thursday to Saturday, maintaining a consistent and professional presence that encouraged footfall and created buzz across the city centre.
“It was a rare opportunity to trade in a prime city centre location with 100% of profits retained,” said one participant. “It was the best pop-up experience I’ve had in Sheffield.”
The benefits extended far beyond the tills. For many of the businesses involved, this was their first experience selling in a physical retail setting. The pop-up gave them an invaluable chance to trial store layouts, understand customer behaviour, refine pricing and gain confidence in their products.
The traders represented a diverse mix of backgrounds and disciplines, with more than half of the businesses championing or representing diversity in some way. From textiles and jewellery to sustainable home décor and visual art, the store reflected the creative richness and entrepreneurial energy that continues to grow across Sheffield.
Every aspect of the pop-up was delivered by local partners, keeping investment within the city. Wall artwork, signage, shop fittings and on-site operational support were all sourced from Sheffield-based suppliers – reinforcing the project’s commitment to community-led growth and inclusive development.
A key element of the initiative was the practical support offered by Business Sheffield, the council’s dedicated business growth team. Traders received direct guidance on topics such as store presentation, merchandising, pricing and customer engagement, as well as support in planning their next step beyond the pop-up.
“The Business Sheffield team were supportive and approachable throughout,” said one trader. “Their guidance helped me refine my presentation, connect with customers and gain insights for future showcases.”
Commercial outcomes were equally encouraging. Participating businesses reported average sales of £1,500 over the four-week period, while 82% rated their overall experience as “excellent”.
Beyond the economic benefits, the project also helped strengthen civic and commercial ties. Visitors to the shop included Cllr Mahroof Mohamed, members of the Sheffield Diverse Enterprise Board, and representatives from Sheffield Chamber of Commerce – all showing their support for the city’s grassroots business community.
The success of the Launchpad Pop-Up Store is a clear example of the impact that targeted support, accessible space and strong local partnerships can have on early-stage businesses. It brought life back to a key retail unit, encouraged festive footfall, and gave dozens of entrepreneurs a stepping stone towards sustainable growth.
Keep an eye out for announcements of its return in the not-too-distant future!
