Independent Derby apparel designer, Karl Shaw is returning to Sadler Gate, this time at number 49, with his ‘Derby centric’ clothing venture ‘Mr Shaw’.
Karl Shaw, Managing Director at Mr Shaw, said: “We want to bring Sadler Gate back to life. Being a Derby heritage brand, we have the city deep rooted within in our DNA. As well as opening our retail shop at number 49 where we will be selling Mr Shaw apparel, we will be using the space to generate a hub for creatives on the upper floors, a coffee and craft beer bar, a pop-up selling space and promote our ‘Reminisce’ music nights, designed to celebrate Derby’s 90s music culture.”
It’s no secret that the Cathedral Quarter has been hit by various economic factors affecting footfall and trade over recent years. But, there remains a resilient hunger by local businesspeople who are committed to returning culture rich retail streets like Sadler Gate back to their former glory.
Local property company, Clowes Developments, own several properties in and around Derby City Centre. Whilst most of their units are fully occupied, their team have been looking to find suitable occupiers for their empty retail units on Sadler Gate, The Strand and St James’ Street to help regenerate this historic part of the town, breathing fresh life into the city centre.
Sadler Gate and its surrounding streets including Iron Gate, The Strand and The Strand Arcade are collectively known as the ‘Cathedral Quarter’. Historically, this part of town has been the home to high-end, independent, luxury shops with a diverse culture.
Since the 1970s there have been some legendary shops which coined the path for high-end commerce within Derby. The likes of Napoleons and Josephine’s which then became His and Hers, Ziggies, Seargent’s Barbers, R E Cords, Roomes Fish Mongers, Potts Shoemakers, Interior Options, The Eye Gallery, Big Blue Coffee House, Limeys, Scenario, Ethos, the Forum, Mark Scott hairdressers… this list goes on. These names all played a huge part in forming the history and reputation of Sadler Gate. The stories created on this street still linger in the conversations of its frequenters and will continue to do so for years to come.
Unfortunately, many of those names have since closed their doors but some continue to flourish and evolve with the trails and tribulations of high street retail. Canopy, established in 1992 has been a resident of Sadler Gate for many years. Thirty years on and the family business continues to face its challenges with creative optimism for turning a challenge into an opportunity whilst retaining its core values of great product and excellent customer service. Brigden’s has also stood the test of time and remained true to is roots in the Cathedral Quarter. In recent years, Brigden’s have expanded their offering to include a new shop dedicated to country attire, selling high-end lifestyle brands including Fairfax & Favor, Le Chameau and Holland Cooper. Importantly, there are many other businesses thriving along and around this historic street.
Retail is not the only reason Sadler Gate holds such nostalgic fond memories for its patrons. The 90s and 00s were fantastic periods for the Sadler Gate night life scene. Some of those hot spots are still providing evening entertainment years on. Vines, The Old Bell, which has been recently renovated, and The Blue Note are still going strong, keeping the true spirit and kudos of Sadler Gate alive.
Karl and his wife, Emma knows the significance and history of this part of Derby City Centre. They are keen to support the revival of Derby’s iconic Sadler Gate by encouraging collaboration between neighbouring occupiers and hosting events to encourage people back to the old streets of Derby.
“When I started, Mr Shaw was a great way to keep my creative juices flowing; free from commercial and client constraints. I had often thought about developing a clothing brand as fashion is a great love of mine and I can’t deny the buzz from knowing someone would wear my brand… a living, breathing identity. I’m excited to combine this with my passion for Derby as we open up Mr Shaw House and combine our love for fashion, music, creativity, craft beer and coffee all in one place!”
Kevin McFarlane, associate director at Clowes Developments, commented on the deal: “As landlords of several commercial properties within Derby city centre, Clowes recognise their responsibility to help regenerate the town.
“We have been working with the Council and invested parties such as Marketing Derby over the past year to provide upgraded premises for start-ups and continue to improve the aesthetics of some of our more tired looking properties. Our aim is to encourage occupiers and promote increased footfall into the area.
“We are delighted to welcome Karl Shaw back to one of our properties on Sadler Gate. Our vision and aspirations for Derby are aligned and we wish him all the best in his venture.”
