From its humble origins as a paper shop that started stocking a few extra sweets, Spavens evolved into one of North Wales’ specialist sweet shops and it has now opened its first franchised shop in Hoole, Chester.
Spavens has a diverse offering, from hundreds of sweets including traditional childhood favourites to over 50 different types of liquorice. The shops also have an ice cream parlour offering 18 flavours of ice cream, along with a selection of crêpes, shakes and sundaes.
The stores can host parties for children and afternoon experiences for friends and families with craft making activities, such as decorating a mug or teapot to painting and filling your own sweetie jar to take home.
Alan Spaven who founded the business along with his wife Rhian, said: “The idea of running children’s parties developed initially in response to a customer enquiry. We now offer parties to suit all ages and occasions, from birthdays to baby showers. Some customers book months and even years in advance.”
The new franchised shop is situated in the village of Hoole, just outside the heart of Chester that has a diverse offering of delicatessen’s, restaurants and boutique shops.
The store interior features murals by the company’s in-house artist and has three party rooms on the first floor. The shop sells an array of sweets, pick and mix, chocolates, Rhian’s home-made fudge and specialist confectionary from all over the world.
Spavens said it had been important to re-create the unique experience people got from its original shop and its new franchisees Debbie Horncastle, Judith Lloyd and Clare Barlow are ideal as they share the same passion and ethos for the brand ensuring that customers are greeted with fun and enthusiasm.
The Spavens franchise package costs £12,000 and includes 10 days operational training, all the designs and graphics for the exterior and interior of the premises to advice on setting up your website. Additional funding is required for equipment that can be bought or leased, stock and shop-fit out.
01352 752 695
www.spavens.co.uk