A retail pop-up has arrived in Manchester's Arndale Centre and was officially opened by 'Queen of Shops' Mary Portas on Thursday June 8.<br /><br />'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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />Strive UK will support 650,000 small businesses, with a particular focus on female and ethnic-minority led businesses.<br /><br />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.
