WREXHAM independent business owners are expressing their frustration as sales hit an all-time-low.

A severe lack of customers has left Wrexham's Central Arcade in the city centre fighting for business due to an assumption it had closed alongside the Butchers Market while it undergoes refurbishment.

Owned by Helen Holbrook Harris, Firefly Shiny Shop is situated at Unit 18, adding a personal touch to an array of beautifully handmade goods including jewellery, prints and crystals.

Sweet MemoriesSweet Memories (Image: Newsquest)

However, Helen was left "gob smacked" as the business made zero sales on Monday (June 24) after making just six over the course of the weekend.

Helen said: "Ever since the Butchers Market closed in August last year, thing's haven't been tremendous due to a lack of footfall, but we've made it this far.

"Last week was dire, and this week was no better. For the first time since I opened in 2015, not one sale today so far. How are independent shops meant to survive?"

Opening in November 2023, Sweet Memories owned by Clarice Powell has been put in a similar position.

"Business has been poor since the Markets closed. If people don't use us, they'll lose us", Clarice said.

"I feel demoralised and disheartened and I would have expected the council to help by means of informing the public that the arcade shops are still open."

Decoration courtesy of Clarice and HelenDecoration inside the Central Arcade (Credit: VZTA Smart Towns)

Another business owner, Steph Noo from Noo Tattoo, has proudly contributed to the inviting decor throughout the arcade, including the draping flowers and pastel lanterns.

Passing customers also commented on the lack of shoppers.

Charlene Thompson said: "People are always winging that there's nothing here anymore and that it's not a city, but really they just don't know these niche places exist. I do think it's quite sad when there's an awful lot of potential."

Jackie Rosaline Davies added: "I personally think the problem is that people think because the market is closed at the moment, that all the other places have shut too. It's hard to tell those who don't have social media that they're here and they're open and they're actually wonderful little places."

The arcade is home to several other niche business including Adobe Above and Noo Tattoo. Creu Shop, situated on Hope Street at the arcade's entrance, opened in October 2023.

Owned by life-long friends with "opposite tastes", Jessica Ball and Sophie Jacobson sell eye-catching clothes and accessories. 

(Image: Newsquest)

Jessica said: "There's a lot of negativity online about Wrexham only having vape shops and nail bars but in reality there are tonnes of amazing independent businesses.

"Our shop which hosts 12 local makers has an array of gifts, clothing, art and homeware. The arcade itself has eight plus independent businesses, where you can get books, tattoos, crystals, sweets, paint, and furniture amongst other things.

TOP STORIES

"I know its easier to buy online but choosing to buy from an independent business makes a world of difference to us and will keep Wrexham shops full."

The Butchers Market situated on High Street with an entrance on Henblas Street is temporarily closed while it undergoes a multi-million pound refurbishment.

The project meant traders moved to various units in Queens Square.

Due to be completed this year, it's reopening should attract both new and existing stalls to the area.