Mastercard’s ‘Thrive Street’ small business weekend pop-up in the Arndale Centre with celebrity Mary Portas

A retail pop-up has arrived in Manchester's Arndale Centre and was officially opened by celebrity and 'Queen of Shops' Mary Portas on Thursday June 8. 'Thrive Street' by Mastercard gives small businesses involved in its Strive UK programme the chance to try out retail space for free this weekend from June 8-11.

Businesses at the pop-up include Calla Shoes, a footwear brand for women; Clair T designs, hand-knitted decorations; The Chocolate Cellar which sells handmade delicious chocolate; Bunny Style, PRIDE-themed clothing, and more.

Mastercard's Strive UK programme helps small businesses by providing free access to training and targeted advice to tackle business challenges, such as setting up an online shop or creating a social media strategy. Strive UK will support 650,000 small businesses, with a particular focus on female and ethnic-minority led businesses.

We headed down to witness Mary Portas cut the red ribbon at the official opening ceremony of the pop-up, and speak to small business owners about why supporting local businesses is important.