Two Derbyshire-based independent businesses are set to open new stores at Peak Village, developing the mix of local retailers at the shopping centre, as the Devonshire Group continues its long-term investment in the site.
Henmores, an Ashbourne-based premium lifestyle and country clothing and footwear retailer, has taken a 2,300sq ft unit at Peak Village, which will open in October.
The business is part of Young Ideas Group, a Derbyshire portfolio of four retail businesses that was established in 1968. It specialises in quality craftsmanship, classic design and functional style, and stocks brands including Barbour, Gant, Holland Cooper, Fairfax & Favor, Joules, RM Williams, Seasalt and White Stuff.
The fit-out of Henmores’ new location is being led by Sheffield-based company Whitehead Commercial Interiors, who previously worked alongside Chatsworth to create the bespoke interior at Peak Village’s new destination restaurant, Chatsworth Kitchen. Designed to blend heritage artefacts with a modern and fresh feel, the store will feature an integrated catwalk to support Henmores’ calendar of fashion events and showcases.
Local independent business Baxter & Co is set to open its first permanent store at Peak Village this September. Business owner Abigail List currently operates a home and garden shop at Tansley Barn Garden Centre at weekends and bank holidays, and she believes that Peak Village is the ideal location to open a full-time shop.
With a focus on relaxation and an eco-conscious ethos, Baxter & Co will offer customers a mix of furniture, lighting, homeware, garden accessories, unique pieces and capsule clothing for both women and men.
List has nearly two decades of experience as a creative director at a national interiors and furniture firm, as well as providing support to small businesses, advising and helping with store design and merchandising.
The arrival of Henmores and Baxter & Co is the latest phase in the development of the retail and leisure outlets at Peak Village, providing greater choice for customers, increasing employment opportunities, and supporting the growth of local businesses.
Katayune Jacquin, centre manager at Peak Village, said: “With its outstanding links to the Peak District and local attractions, and exciting calendar of pop-up events and art exhibitions, Peak Village is a true beacon for local independent businesses to flourish and grow their teams, alongside our mix of innovative national brands and leisure offerings. We’re proud to welcome Henmores and Baxter & Co, two entrepreneurial businesses driven by creativity and quality, to our community at Peak Village. As the centre continues to evolve, we continue to look for opportunities to engage with other independent businesses looking to take their next step and expand their offering.”
Anne Wright, owner at Young Ideas Group, said: “Peak Village is in a perfect location on the doorstep of the great outdoors, and its links to heritage make it a unique retail proposition for our customers. The centre is also home to an exceptional network of independent businesses, retailers and the local community that are focussed on collaborating to elevate one another and boost the Derbyshire economy. It’s an exciting time for Peak Village and we look forward to working in partnership with the Devonshire Group to cultivate a fantastic retail, hospitality and lifestyle destination.”
Abigail List, owner at Baxter & Co, commented: “Seeing the energy and community that the team has created here at Peak Village, as well as hearing about the ambitious plans for the future, I can’t wait to be a part of it! I knew this was the perfect place for my business to grow, and I’m so excited to get the store open and create a space where everyone feels welcome and can be inspired.”
Situated in the village of Rowsley on the edge of the Peak District National Park, Peak Village is home to nearly 20 retail and leisure businesses and employs between 80 and 100 people. The site was purchased by the Devonshire Group, based at nearby Chatsworth in 2021, and significant investment since then – including through improvements to the outdoor environment, landscaping of public areas and refitting of store units – has enabled it to continue improving and growing.
