Waterfoot businessman launches new scheme (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Waterfoot businessman launches new scheme

11:45am Wednesday 5th October 2011 in Waterfoot By Vanessa Cornall, Reporter

A WATERFOOT businessman has launched a new scheme.

Clive Williamson, who was made redundant from Rosebank Shopfittings after 30 years service, has decided to go it alone and open his own business that provides a public service with a difference.

Ambitious Clive has invested in what he knows best, shopfitting, at the former Speedy Hire premises in Bacup Road, Rawtenstall.

The shop, which boosts mannequins, bookshelves and other items of office furniture, is also a showcase for other local businesses.

Business owners can display goods on the shelves of the store and if they sell they pay a small fee.

Clive said: “If a customer comes into the shop to look at a display cabinet why have it empty?

“You might as well use the space to help someone else to sell their products then the clients can see how it may be used as well and it could also help the small business sell their items.”

A internet cafe is also to be set up at the shop, allowing those without access to their own computer to buy time online.

He said: “The internet café will be run in conjunction with computer business Marlcroft. People can call in and use a laptop and there will also be refreshments available to buy.

“If it takes off I have two large upstairs offices that can also be converted to extend the café.”