Funding Supports New Business To Net Plenty Of Trade In Porthcawl
A new fishmonger is netting plenty of trade in Porthcawl just weeks after opening its doors thanks to joint support from Bridgend County Borough Council and Tata subsidiary UK Steel Enterprise.
The Fishmonger’s Cat, based in John Street, Porthcawl is already proving a draw for local shoppers who are benefiting from the owner’s advice and tips on preparing succulent fish and seafood dishes.
Fishmonger, Emma Hancock launched the new business venture in November 2016 after spotting a gap in the market for this type of business in the seaside town.
Emma said: “I recognised the potential for an independent fishmonger in Porthcawl and wanted to establish my own business.”
Emma attended a City and Guilds Fishmonger training course at Billingsgate Fish Market in London to learn about the business.
After finding premises in John Street near the promenade, she spent £20,000 converting the shop, carrying out much of the renovation work herself.
Now the fishmonger and seafood deli has a growing clientele and trade is increasing daily.
Emma added: “I enjoy talking to the customers and discussing ways of preparing and cooking fish and seafood.”
The Fishmonger’s Cat was supported by a £750 Kickstart grant from Bridgend County Council and Tata Steel subsidiary UK Steel Enterprise.
Commenting on the funding support, Emma said: “It was very useful, as I used it to buy computer equipment, which helped me to do the paperwork and administration to get the business up and running.”
Glyn Thomas, Area Manager in Wales for UK Steel Enterprise, said: “We are delighted to have been able to support this new venture, which has added to Porthcawl’s retail offer. We wish her every success.”
Councillor Charles Smith, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development said:
“I am pleased that once again we have been able to offer vital support to a local business in the early stages of setting-up.
“To date the council and UK Steel Enterprise have managed to support 47 local businesses, creating 67 jobs with seven more applications in the pipeline.”
“We’ll follow Emma’s progress with interest and hope that other budding entrepreneurs in the county borough will follow her example and turn their business ideas into a reality.”
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