SOUTH Lakeland District Council (SLDC) has announced plans to expand its ‘pop-up shop’ scheme, following the success of the first unit in Kendal.

The initiative offers entrepreneurs and small businesses the chance to try out trading on the high street for the first time.

Participating retailers can take advantage of a short, affordable and low-risk lease to road-test their retail concept and put their products in front of ‘live’ customers for a limited time.

Opened in February, the first SLDC-owned pop-up shop has proved a big hit with both the public and participating traders.

The 14 square metre space, at 28 Finkle Street in the heart of Kendal, is now almost fully booked until Christmas 2015, with a wide variety of vendors looking forward to making their high street debut.

The latest business to set up shop is Kendal’s own Ginger Bakers, who make an array of cakes and baked goods at their bakery in Dockray Hall Mill.

Due to the success of the Kendal pilot scheme, SLDC’s Economic Development Team is now exploring the idea of bringing the benefits of the pop-up concept to other towns and villages across South Lakeland.

As part of this process they are actively seeking private landlords to help them identify suitable locations in a variety of locations including Ulverston, Bowness, Windermere and Ambleside.

In addition to offering would-be shopkeepers the opportunity to road-test their ideas, landlords who get involved with the project could also benefit greatly from offering a rolling short-term lease on an empty unit.

They will be able to generate a rental income, potentially enjoy lower insurance and showcase the potential of an otherwise unoccupied commercial property.

Overseeing the scheme is Joanne Golton from Invest in South Lakeland, the council-led programme which supports new and existing businesses in the region, who said: “We’re thrilled with the response to the Kendal pop-up shop and are keen to expand the concept to other parts of South Lakeland. The process is simple and we can help interested landlords and businesses every step of the way.

“It’s an invaluable opportunity for entrepreneurs to gain experience and feedback on their retail offer and we could well see a number of temporary occupants becoming new, permanent high street traders.

“This can only add to South Lakeland’s great reputation for quality independent shops and help breathe new life into otherwise empty units.”

Businesses or landlords interested in taking part should contact the Invest in South Lakeland team on 01539 793280 or email info@investinsouthlakeland.co.uk.