Indie’s conversion to Zo and Co retail concept complete

The Marple Zo and Co store.
The Marple Zo and Co store.

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.

The Cheadle store received the revamp in September.
The Cheadle store received the revamp in September.

“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.”

Paul and Zoe Carter collecting their winning Retas trophy from Jackie Collins, md of Cherry Orchard, sponsor of the Best Newcomer North category, with host Charlie Baker.
Paul and Zoe Carter collecting their winning Retas trophy from Jackie Collins, md of Cherry Orchard, sponsor of the Best Newcomer North category, with host Charlie Baker.

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.

Just some of the brands that Zo and Co backs that are promoted to consumers.
Just some of the brands that Zo and Co backs that are promoted to consumers.

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.

The Widdop and Co By Appointment some special occasions gifts in the Cheadle store.
The Widdop and Co By Appointment some special occasions gifts in the Cheadle store.

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!”

 

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