Creative businesses across Shropshire are being invited to take their next confident step into retail as the Shropshire Artisan Showcase 2026 opens for applications.
Hosted at The Darwin, Shrewsbury, this fully funded programme is designed to help designer-makers and producers build retail confidence, strengthen their brands and gain real-world trading experience in a busy town-centre setting.
What is the Shropshire Artisan Showcase?
The Shropshire Artisan Showcase is a structured retail development programme supporting eight selected creative businesses as they prepare for physical retail.
Delivered by Shropshire Growth Hub, in partnership with The Darwin Shopping Centre and Buy-From Creative Agency, the programme combines expert guidance with hands-on experience — all leading to a live retail showcase in the heart of Shrewsbury.
Key highlights at a glance
- Fully funded four-month retail readiness programme
- One-week pop-up shop at The Darwin, Shrewsbury
- Workshops, mentoring and peer learning
- Exposure to real customers in a high-footfall location
Pop-Up Showcase Dates at The Darwin
The programme culminates in a week-long pop-up showcase at The Darwin Shopping Centre from 11–16 May 2026.
The revised spring dates have been carefully chosen to align with increased footfall and the lead-in to the summer trading season, giving participating businesses the strongest possible platform to test, learn and grow.
For visitors, it’s a chance to discover unique, locally made products and meet the creative people behind them — right in the centre of Shrewsbury.
More Than Just Shop Space
Previous participants consistently highlight that the Artisan Showcase offers far more than a retail unit.
Real experiences from Shropshire creatives
Rita Bains, founder of The Perfume Laboratory in Bridgnorth, took part in the 2024 programme and describes it as transformational.
“It wasn’t just about selling products — it was about being part of a community where we could learn from one another, share experiences and grow together.”
Through workshops and mentoring, Rita gained practical insight into retail presentation, marketing and customer engagement — skills that continue to shape her business today.
Since completing the programme, she has gone on to trade at further events across the county and is now expanding into larger premises, reflecting increased confidence and ambition.
Who Is the Programme For?
The Shropshire Artisan Showcase 2026 is ideal for Shropshire-based creative businesses who:
- Work in design, making or production
- Are ready to explore physical retail
- Want structured support to grow sustainably
- Are keen to trade in a town-centre environment
Whether you’re testing retail for the first time or refining your approach, the programme is designed to help you do it with clarity and confidence.
Why The Darwin, Shrewsbury?
As a modern town-centre shopping destination, The Darwin is proud to support local enterprise and creative talent.
Hosting the Artisan Showcase reflects our commitment to creating a vibrant, welcoming place to shop, eat and spend time — while giving shoppers the chance to connect with the very best of Shropshire’s creative community.
How to Apply
Applications are now open, and demand is expected to be high.
Creative businesses are encouraged to register their interest by 10 February by emailing: growthhub@shropshire.gov.uk
FAQs
- What is the Shropshire Artisan Showcase 2026?
- It’s a fully funded retail development programme supporting creative businesses with training, mentoring and a pop-up shop at The Darwin, Shrewsbury.
- When is the pop-up showcase?
- The showcase runs from 11–16 May 2026 at The Darwin Shopping Centre.
- Who can apply?
- Shropshire-based designer-makers and producers who are ready to explore physical retail.
- Is there a cost to take part?
- No — the programme is fully funded through the Marches Growth Hub, supported by the Department for Business and Trade.
For shoppers, creatives and the wider community, the Shropshire Artisan Showcase 2026 promises another inspiring celebration of local talent — right here at The Darwin, Shrewsbury.