CONSORTIUM OF COOL!
Tucked away in Whalley are a group of like-minded creative independent businesses that offer something totally unique. Photography: Kirsten Platt
Visitors to Whalley can’t fail to notice the entrepreneurial spirit. Vibrant King Street is full of boutiques, bars and businesses that are brimming with originality. But look a little closer and go behind the main street and you will discover Back King Street and a collective of tucked-away award-winning independents that are causing quite a stir!
The Salvage House Collective, who also like to be known as the ‘Consortium of Cool’, are attracting much attention with their quirky businesses that regularly stage pop-up bars and events, while other independents nearby are also establishing themselves and winning awards.
Let’s start with the Collective – The Salvage House run by Tom and Edd won a Ribble Valley Business Award for Innovation, testament to their treasure trove of quirky vintage furniture and curious, while SpexBox, run by Rebecca, took the Ribble Valley Award for New Business.
Also in the Collective is Bad Company Barbers run by Jonnie Shaw, who is British Master Barbers accredited and artist Tony Bentley of the Bentley Studio, whose work has been sold around the world.
Nearby is innovative PLM and Wellnest, a luxury gym and fitness studio run by Phil Moss who shares the studio with Sarah Dewhurst – they work together inspiring people to get fit and embrace wellness. Their innovative approach won PLM a Ribble Valley Business Award for Health and Beauty.
At Artisan One’s workshop and gallery Dave and Mel create beautiful frames while nearby is Creative Branding, a garment branding business that has an in-house print and graphic design team and embroidery department.
The entrepreneurial spirit is truly thriving in Back King Street, so next time you visit Whalley, take a look behind the scenes and pay them a visit!
