December 2025/January 2026
housewareslive.net
RETAILER SPOTLIGHT
We saw the relaunch as an opportunity to preserve what the name represented— quality, expertise, and dependable service—while reimagining it for a new generation. The market for kitchenware remains strong, and consumers today appreciate stores that offer both practicality and inspiration. Relaunching allowed us to build on that foundation with a new look, a clearer brand identity, and a more vibrant approach that appeals to a wider audience.
Q: How would you describe the current state of the business and customer demand since reopening?
TKR: There’s no question that retail is challenging at the moment, with pressures affecting businesses across the UK. But the response we’ve had since opening our doors has been very encouraging. Customers who remembered the previous store have returned with enthusiasm, and first-time visitors are discovering us thanks to our new location and stronger digital presence. What we’re seeing most clearly is a growing appetite for products that offer genuine value. Customers aren’t just looking for the lowest price—they’re looking for practicality, durability, and honest quality. They want items that last and that make everyday cooking more enjoyable. That focus on value aligns perfectly with what we aim to offer.
Q: How has the business evolved, and what key lessons have you learned from running an independent store?
TKR: The values people have always associated with The Kitchen Range—trust, personal service, and genuine product knowledge—remain at the heart of what we do. But the retail world has changed dramatically since the 1980s, and so have customer expectations. We’ve invested heavily in updated systems, improved digital communication, and more efficient operations. One of the biggest lessons we’ve learned is the importance of balance: keeping the depth and warmth of traditional customer service while embracing the tools that make modern shopping more seamless. Customers want authenticity, but they also want convenience. They want human interaction, but they also want the option to browse, order, research, and engage digitally. The evolution of the business reflects that duality.
Q: What motivated the decision to reopen the store after its closure earlier this year, and what opportunities did you see in relaunching?
TKR:
The community response to the closure was incredibly powerful. People were genuinely disappointed to see a specialist kitchenware store disappear from the high street. That reaction confirmed something important: the demand was still there, not only from local residents who remembered the original store, but also from tourists who visit Llandudno year after year.
Q: What have been some of the biggest highs and lows of managing The Kitchen Range since the reopening?
TKR:
Reopening a well-known name has been incredibly rewarding. Seeing customers’ reactions when they first walk into the refreshed store is always a highlight— especially for those who have fond memories of the original shop. That sense of nostalgia is something we deeply appreciate. Our biggest challenge was timing. We had a very tight schedule to complete
the renovation and rebrand, and with Llandudno being so busy during the summer tourist season, it was vital that we opened early enough to build momentum. That period was intense—long days, fast decisions, and a strong desire to get everything right. Rebranding was another delicate challenge. We wanted to honour the heritage
of The Kitchen Range without feeling dated. Striking that balance between fresh and familiar was not easy, but watching our new identity take shape has been one of the most gratifying parts of the journey. In many ways, the ongoing evolution— seeing the store find its rhythm, its style, and its voice—has been the biggest high of all.
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