Editorial:
I’m sure we are all concerned at the moment as we see some famous high street names go under and the economic gloom that bombards us each day from the media. Well here’s a really good news retail story for Barnstaple and North Devon.
Many of you will have visited the National Schoolwear Centre in Boutport Street that has been trading for over 5 years and offering a comprehensive schoolgear and accessories store. We mustn’t forget too that David and Louise Simpson’s store has been North Devon’s only independent retail store for dance and gym wear, scout and guide uniforms and Hush Puppy children’s fitted shoes. Well things are about to change.
As with most businesses, our local NSC store is not immune from the “Crunch”, and last year the national NSC franchisor went in to administration leaving David and Louise to keep their locally owned business going without external support, and yet simultaneously plan its future free from any franchise constraints. So its with real excitement that they eagerly announce that their new rebranded store “Top MarXs” has emerged from the last year’s difficulties to offer a much expanded and refocused business as of May 2009.
So what is Top Marxs – will it mean the end of the schoolwear business – most certainly not – this will continue to grow and offer the quality and value that former NSC customers have come to know. Conscious of the demise of both Adams and Woolies in Barnstaple, David says he is determined to offer North Devon quality and value in both the general children’s and specific school uniform market.
All this will now move to a new dedicated uniform shop in the 50% extended sales. Much of the former sales area space is being turned into an exciting new children’s store offering many new lines that will make Top MarXs the place that both children and parents will want to visit.
Look out then for the grand re-opening of Top MarXs in early May when Louise and David promise you will find some exciting and distinct ranges to appeal to children and adults alike.
In addition to much of the present schoolgear, there will be specialist confectionary (it will bring out the real kid in you!), exciting toy ranges and plush cuddlies, kids musical instruments and accessories, and everyone’s favourite character housewares and gifts including the biggest range of lunchbags and bottles in North Devon.
Also to be found in the redesigned store, will be christening and communion wear and some very distinctive children’s fashion items for all ages from babies to teenage promwear. Finally, our shoe section too will expand to cover a wider price and style range.
Look out for the pre-opening publicity for the exact May opening date – but you’re sure to be really surprised by Top MarXs – North Devon’s new specialist children’s store for fundays, schooldays and workdays – 36 Boutport Street, Barnstaple (opposite the Queen’s Theatre - 01271 370066)
