A NEW shop selling pet supplies in Bishop's Waltham has had a positve start, one month after opening.
Willow's Pet Supplies opened on August 6 in Bishop's Waltham High Street.
The shop had been operating online, but owner Victoria Wiggans decided it was time to open a shop, in person.
The business got its name from Victoria's dog, and the success had meant that she has been able to increase her range of products.
Victoria said: It has been a whirlwind few weeks. The support I have received has been great. People are keen to support their local small businesses which is very much appreciated. I have increased my range of products over the weeks and continue to do so, expanding to customer requests and requirements.
"It is a worrying time with the cost of living so I make sure I have a good range of priced products to suit everyone's budget. I happily source brands and products for individual customers as well."
Despite the success, as with many businesses, the cost of living crisis has made it challenging at times.
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Victoria said: "On a personal note it is an anxious time because my household expenses have also gone up, and the shop is such a new venture that I am relying on it succeeding, but with the positive comments I have received so far from my lovely customers hopefully things will continue to go onwards and upwards!
"Bishop's Waltham is such a bustling place with a variety of great shops, a lot of people visit regularly as well as while just visiting the area on holiday."
The owner previously spoke about how important animals were to her family. She said:
I'm known for coming across wild animals in distress and seem to regularly be rescuing something, much to the amusement of people who know me, who are no longer surprised by my stories.
“Everyone in the town has been very welcoming and been very positive about having a pet supplies in the village.
“The shop is lovely and has lots of original features which I love, like an old safe in the wall as you go down the stairs to the cellar, and I am trying to keep a traditional feel to the shop.
“Our online store has a continuous variety of fantastic merchandise along with unique limited edition and seasonal items that fit any budget."
The shop replaced the small unit of Outlaw Barbershop, who have taken over Julia's Kitchen which closed last year.
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