A Swindon family business which began life as a market stall is now celebrating its first decade.
Something Different, based in the town’s Brunel Shopping Centre, was the brainchild of brothers Lee and Ross Mulholland, who wanted to bring Swindon shoppers products not available on the high street.
Both with a background in retail, the duo opened Something Different in Swindon’s old tented market, but soon moved into The Brunel as trade took off.
Now celebrating ten years in business, Something Different is a real family affair. Lee’s partner, Tazmin, is the shop manager, their uncle Keith fitted out the shop and makes some of the products on sale, and their dad Ian is also involved.
“I was in retail, and Lee had also worked in sales. We worked in a variety of different organisations, but always found we lacked job satisfaction,” said Ross. “Our Dad ran a furniture business, was his own boss, and we saw the freedom that offered. So, we decided to set up Something Different.”
In its ten years, Something Different’s range has expanded hugely, offering gifts for all ages, from collectables, jewellery and fragrances, to ornaments, toys and cosmetics. Ross and Lee always strive to sell ranges not usually available in regular high street stores. Popular brands include Loungefly, Squishable, Joma Jewellery and they have recently become a Nomination stockist.
While they also have an online shop, they find at least three-quarters of sales are from their ground floor store in The Brunel.
“We have some really loyal customers, who have been coming here for years and we’re on first name terms with many of them,” said Lee. “Despite what’s said in the media, people want to shop in person still, there is huge demand, and it is growing. We are really optimistic for the future.”
Laura Hepple, Centre Manager, said: “We have some amazing independent businesses at the Brunel, and it always makes me happy to see small businesses succeed and grow. The team at Something Different are very innovative and adaptive with their business, offering thoughtful gifts you may not find in the larger stores, with a friendly customer experience.”
Something Different is located on the ground floor of The Brunel, Swindon, and also runs an online store at https://www.somethingdifferentuk.co.uk/.
Article by Jo Smyth, Word Worker
