Save PLANTIQUE
Donation protected
About My Business:
Hello, I’m Jordan, 25 years old, and I’m looking for financial support to help maintain my small businesses. Plantique is a shop based in Glasgow that sells plants, gifts, and second-hand furniture. Over the last two years, I have worked with more than 150 local makers, artists, and small businesses, providing them with a place to display and sell their work. The concept originated in 2021 when a large retail store shut down in my local area. I approached the landlord to see if I could use the space to create an indoor market for local artisans to showcase and sell their creations. The "Partick Pop Up" was incredibly successful, and I organized several monthly markets in the vacant shop unit. Since it was not a permanent location and the rent was beyond my budget, I had to leave and find a smaller, more permanent space, which led to the opening of my shop, Plantique, where I continue to operate today. The shop promotes a strong sense of community, and I take pleasure in being a shop owner while supporting local makers. I frequently host terrarium workshops and enjoy interacting with the community. For the past two years, I have opened my shop on Christmas Day to create a welcoming place for anyone feeling lonely and in need of a chat to come and visit. This experience has allowed me to connect so many friendly people, and I am dedicated to doing everything possible to keep my shop running.
What Went Wrong:
Since I opened my shop two years ago, I have become a target for shoplifting, which has greatly affected my finances and my ability to keep the business running. I have lost thousands of pounds worth of stock in a short time, which has made it challenging to keep my shop operational. I recently sold my car to help cover some costs, which has allowed me to stay open but has also added to my difficulties. Theft has become a significant threat to retailers, and for independently run businesses like mine, it poses a substantial problem as I lack the resources to continually replace lost stock. If someone steals items worth £200 or less, the maximum penalty upon capture is up to six months in custody, with a reduced sentence for those who plead guilty. Additionally, Brexit and the cost of living crisis have had a considerable impact, with rising energy bills, shop rates, and increased fees for my plant shipments from Europe making the day-to-day operation of my businesses increasingly challenging.
My Recovery Plan:
With your support, I can invest in improved security systems, CCTV, and hire an additional staff member. Currently, I am unable to employ staff as my shop lacks heating and adequate bathroom facilities. With some extra funding, I can prioritise these necessities and restore my shop to proper working order. The money raised will also help me to get new stock to sell, after loosing so much to shoplifting the shop has become empty and filling the shelves has gotten much harder. For the past two years, I have been managing the business myself, seven days a week, and having some extra help would significantly alleviate the workload and help prevent shoplifting. I would also like to visit other businesses to share my experiences and knowledge about managing these challenges, as I have firsthand experience and would love to provide useful information. Having an additional staff member will enable me to do this, and I hope it will assist other shop owners who need support in running their businesses. Operating a business alone can be isolating and overwhelming, with little to no support, which is one of the reasons I have chosen to seek funding, help, and advice. In return for your donations, I will express my gratitude by offering in-store discounts, and a free mini cactus or succulent plant. I will also send a private thank-you message to everyone who donates, and you are welcome to reach out for free plant advice whenever you like as a gesture of appreciation.
The Future:
The year 2025 will be my most challenging yet, but I am confident that with your assistance, I can keep the shop running. I opened my first shop during the lockdown in 2020, starting with just £500 in my bank account, enough to cover the first month's rent. Since then, I have experienced many ups and downs, but managing with a limited budget has taught me a lot about business and survival. Over the past five years, I have witnessed numerous small businesses come and go, yet I have managed to remain in operation. With some additional support, I am confident that my business will not only survive but thrive, continuing to be a part of the high street for many years to come.
Please help me do everything possible to Save Plantique. Support my crowdfunder and consider taking some of the other actions below as well. Then, please share with your friends and family!
How else you can help:
Visit my shop Plantique, 286 Dumbarton Road G11 6TD.
Participate in one of my Terrarium Workshops.
Share my crowdfunder on social media; every like and share makes a significant difference and is free to do.
More About Me:
PARTICK POP UP MARKET: https://www.glasgowwestend.co.uk/partick-pop-up-indoor-market/
PLANTIQUE: https://www.glasgowlive.co.uk/news/glasgow-news/glasgow-shop-owner-open-christmas-30462897
TERRARIUM WORKSHOPS: https://theplantguy.co.uk
Organizer
Jordan Trainer
Organizer
Scotland