A chain of coach-friendly retail locations has opened a third site and is offering operators and tour organisers the opportunity to experience a familiarisation tour.
Millstores in Cleveleys, Lancashire, is marketing itself as a “must-visit” department store for groups exploring the Fylde Coast.
Featuring more than 10,000 product lines from brands such as Rieker Footwear, Apricot, Regatta, Tog24, and Julian Charles, it is the latest venture from innovators Jonathan Addis and Simon Yates.
The duo previously opened Ena Mill in Greater Manchester and The Courtyard in Tarleton Village near Southport, which they say have proved popular with coach parties.
Located between Blackpool and Fleetwood, the 13,000-square-foot store, which opened last month, is described by the owners as “group-friendly”.
The familiarisation tour on a date yet to be confirmed will allow coach operators and tour organisers the chance to experience what it has to offer. It will include overnight accommodation and a coach tour arranged by Waltons Coach Hire of Freckleton.
Interested parties are encouraged to register their interest by emailing Steve Reed on steve@stevereedtourism.co.uk.
“We’re thrilled to offer coach parties visiting or passing through Lancashire another top-quality retail stop,” says Mr Addis.
“Millstores Cleveleys is the perfect addition to our portfolio, delivering the unique shopping experience this vibrant town deserves.”
Mr Yates adds: “This is the third piece in our coach-stop retail puzzle, ideally located for groups visiting Blackpool, Lytham St Annes, Fleetwood, or Cleveleys itself.
“We’re confident Millstores will provide an enjoyable and memorable shopping experience for all.”
The owners of Millstores, who will exhibit under their Ena Mill brand at next year’s British Tourism and Travel Show, say they are hoping the venture will attract more coach parties to Cleveleys.
Their campaign, which includes downloadable guides, suggested itineraries, and contact information for group booking discounts at participating businesses, has the support of other local retailers.
Mr Yates adds: “We’ve known that, over the years, Cleveleys has been renowned as a coach party destination.
“This is our chance to remind people and show people what makes Cleveleys worth a stop. It’s easy to get to, it’s not sprawling, and there’s enough here to fill a couple of hours – with a brew and a chippy tea thrown in.”
