In Which?’s annual survey of the UK’s ‘best and worst’ shops, voted for by 10,000 shoppers, technology specialists Richer Sounds and Toolstation came out tops, closely followed by John Lewis and Waterstones, with Card Factory featuring in 9th position, Paperchase in the 32nd spot and Clintons in 88th.
But what shops do it for Jane Hall, buyer of the Suffolk-based retailing emporium, Snape Maltings? PG Buzz finds out…
“My favourite retailer across the board has always been Liberty, for their championing of new and undiscovered designers and brands through every area of their business from the beauty hall to stationery.
I also love Kikki. K in Covent Garden and will always take a look at what’s new in – I love their fresh take on life planning and journaling.
Buying for several other shops on site as well as our Books & Cards shop, I love to visit Daylesford when I’m in the Cotswolds for that totally seamless, high-end lifestyle interpretation – it’s not just retail, it extends through the cafe to the wellness areas. They do it so well, even though price points are premium, and there is always an affordable treat (foodie or otherwise), beautifully branded and packaged to enjoy as a special take-home.
And, I can never resist a peep into Anthropologie – they are so clever at creating mini-brands within the brand, and weaving stationery and paper products into other lifestyle and gift areas. It always feel like a voyage of discovery, and I particularly love that the feel of every store – from the quirky heritage building of its store in the Kings Road, to its grand Regent Street emporium – is so diverse and individual, a bit like the listed buildings here at Snape. I find it so inspiring to see what can be done with great visual merchandising.
Finally, closer to home in Suffolk, some of my favourite buys have come from my friend Mandy Leeson’s beautiful shop Vanil, in Woodbridge. An early champion of the Scandi lifestyle, Mandy has a fabulous eye, and puts together a wonderful and ever-changing selection – you’ll find everything from a mid-century sofa to a beautiful piece of silver and porcelain jewellery. Snape Maltings aside, Vanil is my go-to for gifts!”
