Diss No8 Marketplace welcomes newest business addition to shared hub
Two entrepreneurs have undertaken a business model shift, switching from a purely online outlet to opening a new shop in Diss.
Zen Craft, which is the latest addition to shared business space No8 Marketplace in Diss, opened yesterday after being run as an online business for three years.
The venture is run by Megan Tooke and Daniel Biggs, from Stuston, who decided to start selling their own handmade, crafted items after both were made redundant in 2020.
“We sell products inspired by nature, such as crystal bracelets, solid stone water features, room sprays, aromatherapy items and furniture,” said Miss Tooke.
“Daniel has spent 20 years doing woodwork and we have a range of furniture that we are looking to expand. I’ve always loved the holistic side, feng shui and yoga, so we both get to spend our day doing what we enjoy.
“Everything we sell is crafted by hand, with eco-friendly principles at the heart of what we do. We reuse wood from pallets, putting lots of care into everything we make and sell, and we’re even happy to adjust or make different sized versions of items if customers put in a request.”
The business partners were inspired to open a shop after seeing the benefits of a shared business space and the more manageable expenses involved.
“We’re excited to be part of this little community and to be around like-minded people,” said Mr Biggs.
“This shop will have great appeal and we had always hoped to open a shop in the long-term so we were really happy when this opportunity came up.
“Sharing a space is perfect really because it helps fill empty spaces in the town, as well as allowing new businesses to get up and running.
“Running a business can be really expensive, so this opportunity is perfect for us, especially as we have to spend time making items as well.”
Zen Craft will continue to attend craft fairs and sell items online – with its website available at www.zencraftonline.com
The Zen Craft shop is open Thursday and Friday, between 10am and 4pm.
