A shopping centre in Stoke-on-Trent is giving another entrepreneur the opportunity to move into a unit rent-free for a year. 

Longton Exchange hope the campaign will give an independent business owner the foundation to grow their brand and attract new customers without the burden of rent for 12 months. 

It follows the success of the first 2023 "win a shop" campaign which saw Sarah Taylor, owner of So Very Dog and Sew Very Pretty UK, grow her business and team at the centre. 

Reflecting on her journey, Sarah said: "Winning the 'win a shop' campaign completely transformed our business. 

"We've exceeded our expectations and we can't wait to see another local business benefit from this fantastic opportunity" 

This year Sarah will be on the judging panel along with other business owners and community figures. The panel has been established to ensure a fair and thorough selection process, the shopping centre says. 

Sarah Taylor, owner of So Very Dog and Sew Very Pretty UK, who won the previous 'win a shop' campain will be on the judging panel this year. (Longton Exchange)

Longton Exchange boses hope the 2025 contest will once again support another entrepreneur in turning their business dream into a reality. 

This year's campaign opens today (17 March) and closes on Monday 21 April at 9am. 

Centre Manager at Longton Exchange, Chris Ward, said: "We were overwhelmed by the success of the previous campaign, and watching Sarah's business thrive has been truly inspiring. 

"We are thrilled to bring back the 'Win a Shop' opportunity for 2025 and can't wait to discover which exciting local businesses will join us in this journey. 

"Supporting the growth of independent businesses is at the heart of what we do, and we're proud to help them flourish within the Longton community." 

Anyone can nominate their favourite businesses by tagging them on Longton Excahnge's social media but only businesses themselves can complete the official entry form, available on the Longton Exchange website.

Longton Exchange say judging will take place once the campaign ends on 21 April and the winner will be announced shortly after 2 May 2025. 

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