The bold mix of food and fashion outlets to be based in glass-fronted containers at the city’s exciting new Wapping Wharf development demonstrates why entrepreneurial businesses are so keen to have a presence in Bristol.
That is according to leading retail property specialist Colliers International, which has described the Umberslade ‘Cargo’ container scheme – believed to be the first of its kind outside London – as a perfect fit at Wapping Wharf.
Colliers International retail director Nick Turk said: “While the capital continues to generate a multi-national, international buzz, Bristol has always remained closely in touch with the latest foodie trends.
“London’s popular container scheme in Shoreditch called Boxpark is a fabulous mix of food and fashion and creates a whole new retail environment perfectly in tune with current trends and very much in keeping with Bristol’s strong independent sector.
“People are keen to try something different, and Bristol accepts and welcomes new ideas and concepts such as Loungers, Boston Tea Party and half a dozen other successful West Country exports.
“Mixing food and fashion creates a stronger destination profile and increases dwell-time which in turn improves discretionary spend and makes the venue far more profitable for retailers.
“We are telling our clients: ‘You have got to be here!’.”
Cargo is Bristol’s first retail development to be made up of 8ft by 20ft converted shipping containers. The scheme will be based at Gaol Ferry Steps, beside Gaol Ferry Bridge, the new pedestrian walkway which links the residential areas of Southville and Totterdown with Spike Island and the city centre.
Nick Turk, who helps collate and present Colliers International’s annual Midsummer Retail Report, says the Cargo scheme is perfect for Bristol and demonstrates the city’s growing entrepreneurial status.
“The city is growing in confidence by the week and we believe it’s an ideal place for ambitious, entrepreneurial businesses to test the water,” he said.
“Bristol’s waterfront is one of the most vibrant locations in the UK and the mix of new homes and apartments with bright and breezy business ventures is great for the city’s reputation – not to mention the wider investment we need.”
