A traditional sweet shop is delighting customers after opening its doors in Southport town centre – and keeping alive a long-held family tradition.
Candymonium has opened at 2 Eastbank Street, between June The Florist and City Slickers Barbers.
Owner Anthony Johnson is proud to sell a growing range of traditional sweets from glass jars to shoppers of all ages.
He has been building his range based on feedback of what types of sweets people want to see.
He is following in the footsteps of his great grandparents, who ran the large pick’n’mix stall inside Southport Market for many years.
Anthony also has fond memories of the old traditional sweet shop which used to trade next to the former ABC Cinema just a few yards away on Lord Street, until the cinema was demolished to make way for the new Vincent Hotel in 2008.
As well as traditional sweets, Candymonium also sells a variety of freshly-made milkshakes, plus cold drinks from its fridges.
There is also a Pokémon range in store, with local firm DSM Collections on site every Saturday – and some other days too – with a large amount of cards available to buy or trade.
Something that has been catching people’s eyes in recent days is the shop’s impressive new window art, featuring the character Vanellope von Schweetz from Wreck-It Ralph, which has been created by Maximum Effort Art Club in Southport.
Candymonium joins a number of new independent businesses which have opened in Southport Market Quarter recently, including Crumbs & Grind Co, Black Market Coffee and Sweets and Cream.
Anthony Johnson said: “I opened Candymonium earlier this summer and would love to let more people know I’m here!
“I worked in the domiciliary care sector for seven years before working at Arden College, and wanted to open my own venture.
“I got married to my wife, Zoe, in September, and thought it was time for a new challenge.
“I have always lived in Southport, and enjoy being here. It’s such a lovely town.
“This is my first business so it’s been both exciting, and also nerve-inducing.
“I’ve gone for opening a traditional sweet shop and pick and mix with a side of Pokémon cards as there is a current boom again with them, as well as some Funko Pop! figures.
“Since opening, I’ve been listening to customers, and building up my stock of traditional sweets according to requests and what’s popular.
“Floral Gums and Cherry Lips are among those which seem to be really sought-after at the moment. I’ve been taking requests from people.
“It’s been really interesting to discover what does well.
“I’m proud to offer great value to my customers as well. We’re very affordable.
“We have quite a few regulars already, who come in every week. We get visitors not just from Southport, but also from places like Liverpool, Wigan, Burnley and elsewhere.
“People can also order online via my Candymonium website, with delivery within the Southport area, or a click and collect service from the shop.
“Everyone loves traditional sweets from glass jars. It’s something which is loved by people of all ages!
“My great grandparents, Wendy and Reg Miller, used to run the famous pick’n’mix stall inside Southport Market. I used to love going in there when I was a kid!
“My Nana has been giving me tips along the way.
“I’m really keen to support local independent businesses in Southport. It’s brilliant how supportive people are towards each other in this town.
“I have a Pokémon range in store, through working with local firm DSM Collections.”
Candymonioum’s artwork has also been attracting shoppers.
Anthony said: “Our Vanellope von Schweetz window art has been created by Maximum Effort Art Club, who would love to do more window art in this area!
“We have a QR code next to their artwork for anyone who’d like any details about them. You can find them on Facebook too
“It’s been such a great talking point, which has attracted so many people.
“Look out for new Hansel and Gretel themed window art coming this autumn!
“My brother, Samuel Spickernell, has created the artwork behind my counter too which I’m really proud of.”
Candymonium is at 2 Eastbank Street, Southport town centre PR8 1DW.
Visit: Candymonium | Pick & Mix Southport | Build Your Sweet Bag Online
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