SWEF funding helps Shoo Shoo Vintage launch online store

When we recently visited Shoo Shoo Vintage in Penryn, we met owner Peach to see first-hand how funding from the South West Enterprise FundA sum of money made available for grant making, often with specific criteria/conditions. (SWEF) has helped her take the next step in her business journey by launching an e-commerce platform.

From a passion projectA piece of work that delivers an output. to a thriving vintage business

Peach’s love of vintage fashion first led her to sell carefully curated clothing and jewellery from the front room of her home on Penryn High Street. Her unique eye for quality pieces quickly attracted attention, and before long she had built a loyal customer base and a strong local reputation.

As demand grew, an exciting opportunity arose when the premises next door became available. Peach expanded into her own retail space and joined forces with two other independent businesses to create Three of Cups – a collaborative vintage marketplace offering customers a diverse collection of clothing, accessories and treasures from different eras.

By sharing the space, the three businesses are able to support one another, share knowledge and create a vibrant shopping experience that celebrates their collective passion for vintage.

Adapting to changing high streets

Like many independent retailers, Shoo Shoo Vintage has faced the challenges of a changing high street. Reduced footfall and rising operating costsThe running costs of your organisation. This is the money you need to make your work happen. These are also called overheads, running costs or operating costs. have made it increasingly difficult for small bricks-and-mortar businesses to thrive.

Funding from the Cornwall Community Foundation through the SWEF programme has played a vital role in helping Peach diversify her business and establish an online presence. The new e-commerce platform allows customers from across Cornwall, the UK and beyond to browse and purchase her carefully selected vintage pieces, creating an additional revenue stream that supports the long-term sustainability of the business.

Looking ahead

Peach is now preparing for an exciting new chapter, with plans to move away from the Penryn store and explore opportunities to trade in London. As her business evolves, the online shop will become even more important, ensuring her Cornish customers can continue to shop with Shoo Shoo Vintage wherever she is based.

We are incredibly grateful to Peach for welcoming us into her shop, sharing her story, and keeping us updated on the future of Shoo Shoo Vintage. We look forward to seeing where her next adventure takes her.

To explore Shoo Shoo Vintage, browse the online shop, follow along on Instagram, or visit Three of Cups, 20 Lower Market Street, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 8BG.

If you are aged 18-30 looking for funds to get your business off the groun, apply for SWEF here: SWEF – Grant | Cornwall Community Foundation