LOCAL entrepreneurs have revealed ambitious plans to help transform Droitwich into the nation’s best town to visit- with introducing an Italian market among their grandest ideas.
The Droitwich Business Association (DBA) was formed earlier this year to give local entrepreneurs a platform to share expertise and develop ideas to get Town business booming.
Its Co-Chair Paul White, who owns Antique and Vintage, revealed his idea to the Standard of a week-long Italian market, which he hopes could be introduced next summer or winter.
He said: “Worcester has its Victorian Fayre and Birmingham has its German Market, but Italian food is the most popular dining experience in the UK.
“We could bring authentic vendors from Italy and give people dishes and experiences they can’t get anywhere else in Britain.
“We want to have monthly events of all kinds, as if you can get people into Droitwich they’ll disperse around the town to see what else is here.”
Fellow Co-Chair John Hamilton, who has 40 years business experience, added he felt Droitwich had the best characteristics and most potential of any town he had ever seen.
“The age of the super stores is gone now and independent shops are taking over, entrepreneurs should be selling their products direct to the consumer.
“Shops here need to offer a unique and enjoyable experience, I’ve already spoken to an artisan baker who may want to come here.
“Children need something to educate and entertain them, so I think ideas along the lines of do it yourself pottery making shops could work.
“We can’t control what businesses come to the town but if you offer the bait you’ll get the right kinds of fish so we need to make sure Droitwich is attractive to invest in.”
Both Co-chairs said the DBA would advise Droitwich Spa Town Council on how to best use its resources to assist business needs.
John added Wychavon District Council had recently allocated £30,000 towards renovating the fronts of several shops.
The issue of free parking in the town centre has been raised by Standard readers in recent months.
John suggested making parking free after three hours, while Paul said businesses could advertise in car parks that if people shop with them and show their ticket, the owner would pay the fee.
WHAT DO YOU THINK?- Do you like the idea of an Italian market in Droitwich and should it be in the summer, winter or both? Email [email protected] with your views.
