A great example of independent card retailers fighting back in a tough retail climate, Paul and Zoe Carter have just completed the total overhaul of their group of four card shops to their new Zo & Co fresh look.
“You can’t just sit back – so we just decided to go for it,” summed up Paul Carter, who co owns the shops with his wife Zoe. “This has been the most significant development for our business since we started, but the positive reactions from customers are worth it alone, let alone the improved trading.”
The new concept debuted in their Knutsford store last November – which went on to win a Retas award in July – the couple’s Didsbury store received a similar makeover in June, the Cheadle branch in September and this month Marple completes the set.
Having traded as a Hallmark Gold Crown store for years, the Carters committed to the radical new independent approach that they developed themselves with support from suppliers, most notably GBCC and Widdop and Co.
A contemporary light grey frontage, wood flooring, ‘floating shelves, modern card fixtures, curated gift areas (focusing on Widdop’s Amore, Bambino, Impressions, By Appointment and Emporium brands), plus a Thorntons section and a Qualatex balloon area completes the line-up.
“It has been frantic, but well worth it. The shops are trading really well, the customers’ comments have been so positive,” Paul told PG Buzz. “We are now looking forward to a really good Christmas!”
