News: Rotherham town trader at 20

An independent, different retail offer in Rotherham town centre is nothing new as Mesmerize, Rotherham's premier alternative store, celebrates its 20th year in business in this weekend.

The shop opened for the first time on May 8, 1995, and has proved to be enduringly popular with shoppers to the town searching for more alternative gifts and jewellery.

Starting on a stall on the old outdoor Rotherham market, the store is now based on Wellgate and was last year was named Rotherham Town Centre's "Independent Retailer of the Year" - an award voted for by the public.

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Over the years, the range of items sold has expanded to include Gothic and alternative clothing as well as a large range of aromatherapy oils, incense, home fragrances and licensed Nemesis artist collections and figures.

Mesmerize is also a popular venue to buy tickets for local gigs and concerts.

Lynda Crampton, owner of Mesmerize, said: "I received help from Business Link and the Prince's Youth Trust to open a bricks and mortar shop and I am still here today 20 years on thanks to the incredible continued support from Rotherham shoppers.

"I am very proud to be trading in Rotherham town centre. I have made many new friends over the years and I would really like to thank all my great and loyal customers for their support over the past two decades."

Many of these customers helped Lynda celebrate last month at a special anniversary bash attended by 300 people, which included a host of live music and entertainment including local band Papa Legba's. The store is running offers and a raffle as celebrations continue.

Mesmerize Facebook page

Images: RMBC

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News: Mesmerize voted Rotherham's independent shop of the year

Mesmerize, the Rotherham shop that features an eclectic range of goth, rock, alternative and Pagan essentials and gifts, has been voted the town's independent shop of the year.

Mesmerize first opened in 1995 with a small grant from the Prince's Trust and will be celebrating 20 years on Wellgate next spring.

The competition was launched by the council on the back of the national Independents' Day campaign. Skate store, Props, based at Eastwood Lane was in second place, and finishing third was The Whistle Stop Sweet Shop located at Imperial Buildings.

Lynda Delizium, manager of Mesmerize, said: "I would like to thank everyone who voted for Mesmerize.

"I am extremely proud in winning as the quality and service of the independent shops in Rotherham is amazing. As a small independent, trading in a recession can be very challenging and this support is astounding and well received.

"I love my job and there is never a boring day. I try to provide a hub of information for the alternative scene alongside the gifts, jewellery and clothing for sale in the shop."

Cllr. Dominic Beck, cabinet member for Business Growth and Regeneration, added: "Congratulations to all the businesses who received votes and particularly to Mesmerize. Shoppers cited the "Aladdin's cave" of unique products and fantastic customer service as reasons why they were their winner.

"It was incredibly difficult to tell who would win and with over 150 independent town centre retailers, the eclectic mix was sure to inspire debate.

"It was great to see the incredible support businesses have received from customers. It shows the public are really passionate about Rotherham's independent retail offer and had fantastic things to say about stores across the whole town centre."

Mesmerize Facebook page
Rotherham town centre website

Images: RMBC

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