News: Bitter Sweet Boutique blossoms in Rotherham town centre

An enterprising young retailer has added something unique to the retail offer in Rotherham town centre.

Laura Bullock's Bitter Sweet Boutique on Moorgate Street specialises in vintage furniture and individual accessories. It was opened by the Mayor in October.

At 21, Laura already has bags of experience, she grew up helping out with her parents own business (print and media suppliers, Copycatz in Rotherham) and excelled studying business at Rotherham College of Arts & Technology (RCAT), where she helped win first prize in a business competition.

Laura's talent was spotted by the European-funded Rotherham Enterprise Project who supported her business acumen with a business coach and helped her to secure financial assistance from the Town Centre Vitality Scheme.

The council-run scheme aims to encourage new independent retailers to open up outlets in Rotherham town centre by providing financial contributions towards both rental and shop fitting costs.

Darren McDool, business coach for Rotherham Youth Enterprise, said: "It's really encouraging to see someone as young as Laura daring to develop their dreams and make them a reality.

"Laura spotted a gap in the market and acted on this, as a consequence she now has a beautiful and busy boutique. I'm very excited for the future of Laura and her lovely Bitter Sweet Boutique."

Laura spotted an opportunity to offer her hometown some style and elegance. She said: "I wanted to see furniture shops that inspire people, which make people feel special. The sort of shops you see and can't walk past.

"I couldn't find one, so I thought, why not open one."

Bitter Sweet Boutique website

Images: Bitter Sweet Boutique