Competition winner takes up Derbion unit

The winner of a competition run by Derbion to help independent retailers has moved into a unit within the centre as part of their prize.

Fashion-forward retailer 1NE. is now open at Derbion after winning the centre’s independent retail initiative called Hatch.

Located on Level 2, next to Ernest Jones and Castle Fine Art, it is 1NE.’s second store.

The Hatch competition offers budding business owners the chance to set up their own retail space within Derbion with rent, service charges and business rates covered for the first six weeks.

1NE. was established by friends Dan Bennett and Alex Mcleod in 2020, after the pair seized the opportunity to sell trainers and retro clothing in a small space above a hairdressers, which they outgrew within six months and upsized to their Sadler Gate location.

Beth McDonald, managing director at Derbion, said: “For four years, our renowned Hatch initiative has provided local, independent businesses with the opportunity to take the next step and open a physical store in a shopping centre.

“We’re proud that our Hatch competition has once again offered a much-loved local brand the chance to expand their business, and we’re so pleased to welcome 1NE. to Derbion.”