Pop-up shop to help city start-ups thrive

Jamie Edwards, Melissa Foster and Lewis Rose have brought their businesses to the pop-up shop

A pop-up shop in Hull city centre is giving young entrepreneurs a chance to develop their business skills.

The Hull Emporium, in Paragon Street, will provide a space for people working in retail, digital, graphic design, joinery and other industries until March 2026.

The site is operated by the Making Changes for Careers programme (MC4C), which aims to connects young people with a network of experts.

Paul Smith, a youth enterprise advisor, said the shop formed part of a "network of community locations" where people could "get the advice and support they need".

MC4C ran a similar project in Hepworth Arcade in December 2024.

Designer Melissa Foster has benefited from the service after setting up a business to create posters, T-shirts and merchandise for musicians.

"I was doing it as a hobby at first and some local bands got in touch and said they liked my work, so I have developed my own style," she said.

"I normally work from home, so it's nice to have the opportunity to work in person. I'll be able to reach a lot more people by working here."

The shop will be open from 10:00 to 16:00 BST Monday to Friday.

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