Independent Kettering shop can't wait to welcome people back

A popular mini department store full of independent traders in Kettering can't wait to open their doors again next week.

It's been a long few months for many businesses, including The Bean Hive in High Street, who have been closed since Covid restrictions were brought in at the start of 2021.

But on Monday (April 12) some restrictions will be eased and 'non-essential' shops will be able to welcome customers again.

And The Bean Hive's owner, Davina Parkhouse, is expecting them to be busy when they open their doors on Monday.

She said: "I can't wait to see our customers again - they are like our friends.

"We've missed our little community and our traders.

"I think we are going to be really busy and I think people are going to go out of their way to support small, local businesses again.

"People do not want to lose their high streets."

When the third lockdown started The Bean Hive closed off their website and didn't offer a click-and-collect service like they previously had.

They took this decision so they could concentrate on giving the colourful shop a makeover.

When shoppers return they'll not only see a new look but find a new home department upstairs. Street art is also coming for the shop's exterior walls.

The Bean Hive will be following similar measures as before to stop the spread of Covid-19 They include screens, hand sanitiser, compulsory masks and restrictions on the number of shoppers inside at one time.

Davina said: "I think there's a lot of people who just want to go out, say hello and experience a day out going shopping again.

"It's been tough for everyone."