ESTABLISHED by Arthur Hughes in 1955 in Northgate, Darlington, the family- run The Art Shop is not only an iconic part of the town’s retail offering, but a sterling example of how family businesses can survive – and thrive – through good times and bad.

Now run by Arthur’s son Ian, and his wife Lynda, the secret behind the business’ success is multi-faceted. Not only has it worked hard to build up a reputation for a vast product range that attracts artists and crafters from throughout the North-East, but it is a place of inspiration for anyone who wants to get their creative juices flowing.

Add to this competitive prices and trained staff who know how to help customers, and you have a formula that has seen the company flourish.

“Independent shops can be more flexible, make immediate decisions, offer more information and be more approachable about pricing and offers than multiples,” says Ian. “For customers, this means they get a more ‘made to measure’ shopping experience.”

Most towns are home to the traditional high street multiples, but it is the independent shops, Ian believes, that sway a customer’s decision about where they’re going to shop.

“The local independents are the connection that keeps people coming back to a town for their shopping needs,” he says.

“Independent traders are interested in fostering a community relationship in the town where they trade and offer something different to the local community which they won’t find anywhere else.

“All towns can have the same multiples, but it is the uniqueness of the local independent shops that give a town character and a reason for visiting it and staying to shop.

“Local stores also have much more community-based objectives.

At The Art Shop we offer the opportunity for local groups or events to advertise in the shop and are a source of local information for what’s happening in the town.”