WHITEHAVEN business owner duo have reflected on their first year in business, and shared how they continue to battle through the cost of living crisis.

Adrian and Lorraine Barrett moved to Whitehaven in August 2021. Adrian is originally from from Cambridgeshire and Lorraine, Derbyshire. They spotted a space in Whitehaven high street to open their store and thought it was perfect.

The pair opened Haven Artisan. The store sells handmade items made by the couple and local crafters.

Since opening in July 2022, the shop has moved premises, now being located on King Street, opposite New Look. 

Lorraine shared how the cost of living crisis affected her business, she said:

"The cost of living crisis has affected how people spend, even though we are affordable, people tend to be going to the pound shops and larger businesses that can afford to bulk buy and put prices really cheap."

She continued:

"The best thing about owning our own business is being able to showcase our own products and what we can produce, and also being able to help other crafters sell their own items, we have also been trying to help out our local community on Mirehouse with help towards the cost of living."

The duo hope to introduce more crafters into their business to showcase their products, make the shop bigger and brighter, and develop future products.