51 RETAILER INTERVIEW www.aberston.com buyers are looking for items that feel special, products that can’t be found everywhere. In your opinion, how will your service help make the independent retail market grow? By levelling the playing field. Aberston gives smaller retailers the tools and access they need to compete with larger chains, without compromising on quality or character. And for brands and makers, we offer a streamlined way to reach likeminded stockists. Independent retail thrives when it has structure, support, and access, and we provide all three. What is in it for retailers and buyers to use Aberston? Retailers get curated access to hard to find products, favourable credit terms, and a stress free shopping experience. Brands gain visibility, access to new stockists, and the freedom to focus on creating rather than marketing, selling, chasing payments or managing logistics. It’s a win-win platform designed to help both sides grow sustainably. Are you active on social media, and how do you use it for your business? Absolutely. Social media is where we tell the stories behind the shopfront. At @weareaberston, we use Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Tik Tok to spotlight the makers we partner with, share new arrivals, and highlight retailers who are doing things differently. It’s not just about promotion; it’s about building a connected and supportive community of independent businesses. What brands do you stock and why? Every brand on Aberston is handpicked. We prioritise makers and creatives who value sustainability, craftsmanship, and originality. You’ll find brands that make in small batches, tell honest stories, and care deeply about what they do. Which retailers are on board with Aberston? We work with independent retailers across the UK and Ireland, from boutiques and gallery shops to concept stores and lifestyle spaces. They share a love for discovery and a commitment to selling products with meaning. Can you tell us some success stories about brand/retailer collaboration from using the site? One of our early collaborations saw a stationery brand from Devon picked up by a retailer in Belfast, within weeks, they had built a lasting partnership and were co-developing a bespoke line together. That’s the kind of connection Aberston exists to support. Do you attend any trade shows and if so, which ones and why? We’ve connected with retailers and brands at Showcase Ireland, the Gifted Fair in Dublin, and the Spring Fair in Birmingham. These events help us stay close to the community, hearing what’s needed, showing what’s next, and building trust face to face. What has been your standout moment since opening the online service and why? Seeing a brand get their first wholesale order through Aberston was unforgettable. It confirmed we were doing something meaningful, empowering makers and retailers to build sustainable businesses on their own terms. In what ways are you positive about the future of independent retail? The shift is clear, customers want substance, not sameness. Independent retail has the agility and authenticity today’s shoppers crave. With the right tools and support, this sector isn’t just surviving, it’s evolving into something stronger, more connected, and more design-conscious. What advice would you give to the brands and retailers to get the most out of the website? Be honest, be specific, and update regularly. Retailers should use the filters and wish list tools to plan ahead. Brands should make sure their photography is clear and their story is present. Aberston works best when you show up as yourself. What are your plans for the future? In early 2025, we officially launched across the UK and Ireland. Then, it’s Europe, beginning with France and Germany. We’re growing thoughtfully, staying close to our values, and always listening to the community. It’s all part of our mission: to connect small businesses and create value, one fair trade at a time.
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