Shops / News
Shopkeeper sends SOS amid fears of being forced to leave current premises
The owner of a rare beacon of independence in Cabot Circus fears that she might be forced to leave her current premises.
Beck Prior’s eponymous shop, PRIOR, which began on West Street in Old Market and is now based in Quakers Friars, is an award-winning not-for-profit shop, workshop and gallery.
It currently also has a pop-up shop in Quakers Friars as well as a stall at the Christmas market in Broadmead, all selling products made by dozens of local makers.
is needed now More than ever
But a business rates increase could put pay to PRIOR unless, says Beck, either “the council or central government steps in or we achieve an exceptional Christmas sales period”.
“While I refuse to close PRIOR completely, I am preparing plans to continue in other areas of Bristol and the city centre,” Beck wrote in a blog post on her shop’s website.
“We’ve worked far too hard to lose everything. It’s been an uphill battle keeping PRIOR alive amidst retail giants.
“My approach has always been one of ‘retail anarchy’ and I knew it would be risky and challenging. However, I didn’t anticipate it being this frustratingly hard.
“City centre retail is designed for large corporations, pushing small businesses out with outdated and absurd rules and charges.”
PRIOR has always been ‘more than just a shop’ – photo: Martin Booth
Despite the government announcing plans to reform business rates in 2026 to create a fairer system, Beck said “we cannot afford to bear the increase while we wait”.
She said: “Additionally, the reform may not apply to all retail businesses, making it far too risky to rely on hope alone.
“If we can’t stay, our plan is to relocate to a smaller unit in Bristol and return to Cabot Circus as a Christmas pop-up each year.
“If business rates reform happens in 2026, we could consider moving back permanently.”
Beck Prior started making eco-conscious products using recycled and reclaimed materials under her own brand, Priormade, in 2011 – photo: Mia Vines Booth
Beck added: “I feel a little defeated but also incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved in three years. Maybe, if it comes to it, relocating the shop was always meant to be and perhaps we are on the right path of long-term growth.
“I never see any part of business as a failure. If we have to move out, it will be an opportunity to recalibrate, strengthen our roots, plot a new path and grow stronger…
“For now, we need an SOS push to stay here or fund our relocation: please spread the word, shop online, and visit our two stores and market in the city centre. Every bit of support helps.”
Main photo: Martin Booth
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