Bath independent stationery retailer and printer Meticulous Ink is in the running for a major national award that champions the UK’s best creative small businesses.
Meticulous Ink, which was opened 10 years ago by designer Athena Cauley-Yu, sells a range of stationery and paper goods, calligraphy pens and inks as well as offering a bespoke printing service for business cards, personal stationery and wedding invitations using its two original Heidelberg printing presses.
It is lined up as one of 20 small, fiercely independent retailers in the ‘High Street Shop of the Year’ category of the The Independent Awards 2020.
Spearheaded by Holly Tucker MBE, founder of Not On The High Street and UK Ambassador to Creative Small Businesses, the awards have been created to showcase and recognise the very best creative small businesses.
The winner receives £10,000 to spend on improving and expanding the business.
Fans of independent businesses can vote for their favourite to go through to the shortlist stage via the firms’ websites.
Athena, pictured, said: “I’m humbled to be nominated alongside so many inspiring and creative independent businesses.
“I feel like I’m one of the underdogs, but I like a challenge! To win the award would be life-changing for my business.
“I know if I can count on anyone to help me win, it’s this amazing community. I feel so lucky to trade in an area where independent retailers are so valued by local shoppers.”
Holly Tucker said: “With all of the challenges the high street has faced this year, these are the retailers that go the extra mile to create an immersive customer experience, standing out as shining examples of the future of retail.
“With installations, experiences and customer service that go above and beyond, the nominees in this category are paving the way for present and future independents across the country. Doing things that only ‘small’ can, in a way that only ‘small’ can – with confidence, commitment and a smile on their face!
To vote for Meticulous Ink visit meticulousink.com. Final votes must be cast by December 3.
