THE future of a well-known independent shop tucked behind Poole’s Dolphin Shopping Centre has been secured, thanks to its new owner.

Last year, the Daily Echo reported that Market Gallery was set to close after 20 years due to the retirement of its owners, Mike and Shirley Bainger. The couple were reluctantly preparing to close its doors so they could move to Norfolk and be closer to their family.

However their treasured shop’s legacy will continue after fellow shop owner Chris Fowler agreed to take on the business, including its loyal team of staff.

Chris, who also owns Bitznfix in the Dolphin Centre, has been learning the ropes over the last six months and, as of last Friday, is now in charge of the shop.

He said he had already made some improvements, but was keen to reassure loyal customers that no major changes were planned.

“We’re making incremental improvements. We’ve put in brand new tills and PDQ machines to make the transaction process quicker. Having card machines is probably the biggest fundamental change that customers are going to notice, and it’s something that everybody has asked for.

“We’re also looking at the aesthetics of the store and have replaced some of the metal shelving. We’re taking things off the shelves that are no longer fit for sale, but we’d like to say 75 per cent of the existing stock will remain. We’re looking at the partyware side of the business, which has doubled in size. We want to provide a one-stop shop for a children’s birthday party.

“Literally hundreds of customers have said the place is already looking cleaner, tidier, and brighter. We want people to come in and have a joyful shopping experience.”

Chris also plans to incorporate his phone repair business into the shop. He is also considering introducing a small café down the line.

Recalling the moment he agreed to take on Market Gallery, he said: “Last year when the Echo ran the story of the owners retiring, I wasn’t really aware of the store. I went down to say hello and wish Mike and Shirley well. A week later, they approached me and asked if I would consider taking over the business. They wanted a local business owner who was still young in their career and a family man – somebody like them 40 years ago when they started the business. They said it would break their heart if the store closed down and they wanted their legacy to continue. They also wanted their staff to keep their jobs.”

He added: “I’m thinking about other services we can offer down the line – possibly a small café in the corner. I’m open to suggestions and listen to the people who shop here as, without them, there is no business.”