Lock29 Celebrates Trader Growth: Local Businesses Blossom Into New Ventures

Lock29 prides itself on championing small business and is thrilled to celebrate two of their traders embarking on exciting new chapters. 

Flower Funky, run by Kate Arnold, specialises in sustainable fashion and is a treasure trove of boho vintage clothes, ethical gifts and stylish, upcycled accessories. After a series of successful pop-ups, Kate joined Lock29 as a permanent trader in June 2022. Her creativity and unique approach to fashion quickly made her a favourite among visitors.  Kate’s journey at Lock29 has been remarkable and her popularity has inspired her to open her own shop in Stratford-upon-Avon.  

 
Kate says, “Flower Funky started with markets and pop ups, then I was given the opportunity to move into one of Lock29s units. It’s meant that I've been able to expand what I do, then expand the unit. And now we’ve grown enough that I can take on a shop unit, which I would never have been able to do had I not been in Lock29.  I was able to formulate a business from being in here - I know that it works - and I wouldn't know that if I was going straight into the shop. I’m very excited about the future”. 
 
While Lock29 will clearly miss having her on site, they are proud of her success. Flower Funky’s last day at Lock29 will be Saturday, 18th January. 
 
Crystal Intentions, founded by Michelle Coles, offers a stunning selection of natural crystals, ethically sourced healing stones and handmade, silver jewellery. After running pop-ups at Lock29 for over a year, Michelle opened her first permanent shop in August 2024. Since then, her business has flourished, drawing customers in with its unique charm and meaningful products. 

Building on her success at Lock29, Michelle is now set to open a new shop not too far away in the picturesque village of Adderbury. Her last day trading at Lock29 will be Monday, 20th January. 
 
The growth of Flower Funky and Crystal Intentions is not only a testament to the hard work and dedication of Kate and Michelle but also the supportive community which has been forged at Lock29. Lock29 Manager, Stuart McGregor, says, “Flower Funky and Crystal Intentions have been great ambassadors for Lock29. They're fantastic examples of our mission to provide a platform for businesses to expand and grow. While we’re sad to see them leave, we're incredibly proud to have been part of their journey and thrilled that they have had the opportunity to expand into their own shops. We wish them all the best in their new ventures”.