Local fashion guru to speak at empty shops summit

Paul Turner-Mitchell

Independent retailer Paul Turner-Mitchell, who was included in the 2011 Drapers 100 Powerlist as one of the most influential people in fashion, and Rochdale MP Simon Danczuk are speakers at an event organised by the Empty Shops Network and Sirius PR.

Artists, policy advisors, politicians and entrepreneurs are joining forces to find ways to fill vacant shops in the North West at the summit on 15 June.

Mr Turner-Mitchell said the recession offered unexpected opportunities for new businesses. He added: "I was able to move into a great retail space because of the downturn," he said. "There are good deals to be had in a recession and it can be a very creative time. Let’s not forget that Microsoft started in a recession.

"We want to see a host of creative business ventures and community projects take to our high streets. Getting some of the country’s leading creative thinkers in one room is the first step to making this happen."