New business blooms as florist shop opens in Hartlepool

Karen Thompson, 50, has just opened Flower Lounge on Murray Street after working for more than 12 years as a florist in Blackhall.

The mum-of-two, from Hart, officially welcomed customers into her store on Friday with a celebration event attended by the Mayor of Hartlepool, Coun Allan Barclay.

Karen said she was delighted to see her first venture so well supported by the community already.

She said: “There was a really good turnout and it’s lovely to have had so much support.

“It was a big decision to leave a job where I was employed, to then start out on my own.

“When I came across this store, it had already been a florist for more than 40 years.
“It closed around Christmas time last year and I have now opened it up as a new florist’s.

“It has been open for trade for around two and a half weeks now and is already thriving.
“I think it is down to the business being in the same place where a florist has already been for all those years.

“The locals have made me feel so welcome and my family and friends have been amazing.”
The new business had undergone a compete transformation, with exposed brickwork, concrete flooring and new counters, to give it a modern feel.

Karen caters for all occasions and offers a number of tropical bouquets, alongside extras such as cards and balloons, with the aim of making it a one-stop shop.

The shop is open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday and on Saturdays from 9am to 1pm.

Karen, who has 24 years of retail experience, added: “I will be looking to take staff on in the run-up to Christmas if the business continues the way it is.”