Finalist in Retail NI High Street hero Awards

Midtown Makers Gift Shop is much more than a retail destination.  It is a social enterprise that has created opportunities for more than 100 local artisans and makers since its formation in 2014. Showcasing and selling their products, giving local entrepreneurs a prominent affordable town centre presence while providing a unique retail experience for visitors and the local community.

In partnership with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council the regeneration facility is home to Ballymena Tourist Information Hub providing a friendly welcome for visitors exploring the local area.  Alongside this, Midtown Makers Gift Shop in partnership with Ballymena Rotary Club provides a dedicated ‘Rest Space’ where visitors can learn about the history of Ballymena, tap into support of local Rotary Charities or simply relax and recharge in a quiet space during their shopping trip to Ballymena.  The Business Hub located on the first floor is a dedicated Social Enterprise Space, enabling community, regeneration and employability organisations engage with the public and grow within the heart of the town centre.

Looking ahead, Ballymena Business Centre is embarking on the development of a new Ballymena Enterprise Strategy, which will explore innovative opportunities to support both new start-ups and growing businesses. Through enterprise development, business support and collaborative partnerships, the strategy will help position Ballymena as a destination where entrepreneurship flourishes and investment is encouraged.

Working alongside local stakeholders remains central to the organisation's approach.  Ballymena Business Centre continues to build strong partnerships across the public, private and voluntary sectors and as a Member of Retail NI benefits from sector leadership, advocacy and best practice.

Glyn Roberts, Chief Executive of Retail NI, on a recent visit welcomed the tremendous difference made by the initiative, recognising its importance in strengthening communities, partnerships and future vision.

As Ballymena celebrates four centuries of history, Midtown Makers Gift Shop stands as a symbol of renewal, collaboration and ambition. It demonstrates how enterprise, creativity and partnership can breathe new life into the town centre while preserving the community spirit that has defined Ballymena for generations.

With ambitious regeneration plans, a forward-looking Enterprise Strategy and continued partnership, Ballymena Business Centre is helping to shape the next chapter in Ballymena's Story.  As we celebrate Ballymena 400, Midtown Makers Gift Shop reminds us that the greatest investment we can make is in our people, our businesses and our community with a shared future for our town centre.

For more information on Midtown Makers Gift Shop visit www.midtownmakers.co.uk