Bungay business Ellie’s Boutique opens ahead of launch of Bit on the Side in Upper Olland Street

A mum from Suffolk decided to ‘get her big girl pants on’ and launch two new businesses which cater directly to the needs of her town.

Kathryn Healey, 49, launched Ellie’s Boutique, a dress agency, in Bungay on June 17, and will open a new budget coffee shop, called Bit on the Side, in the unit next door in July.

She felt the town lacked a place for people to shop for food, clothes or accessories on a budget.

The dress agency, named after her late daughter who died 20 years ago, will allow people to exchange clothes for cash or instore points.

Kathryn said: “Bungay is a town of ‘haves’ and ‘have-nots’, and we have to look at what is economic for many people.

“As a mother, I understand things are rough right now. Food and clothing are essentials that people need, but can be out of range for many. We also want to allow people to sell used items, either in exchange for money or in-store points.

“People should be able to shop without the worry of struggling down the line, or needing to blow a week’s wages, and schoolchildren or the less fortunate should be able to grab a good-quality lunch for a reasonable price.

“I felt there was a real void that needed to be filled. We’re on the opposite side of town from other food stores, and nowhere exists now to buy cheap clothes. There isn’t much in this area, so we also want to give people a reason to visit this of Bungay.

“Since we opened, we’ve had a lot of interest and people have even traded in designer clothes, with brands such as Armani. I also made sure to stock up on prom dresses, as what’s the point in blowing a fortune on something you’ll only wear once?

“Most important of all, we’re very community focused – whatever people want, we aim to provide. Leftover food will go to the local community centre, so there’ll be no waste. Both businesses will be run sustainable, using biodegradable or recyclable cups and cutlery and recyclable clothing. Even our coat hangars are sustainable.”

Ellie’s Boutique will stock a variety of clothes for men, women and children, including eveningwear, shoes and accessories. It will feature displays to allow people to cater to their personal tastes.

Bit on the Side, the coffee shop next door, will be run by her husband – who is retraining to be a chef – once it opens its doors on July 1.

Ellie’s opened on the site of the former Fur Dogs Grooming Salon, and its official launch was attended by Toby Hammond from the Bungay Green Party.

Kathryn said it was time to ‘get her big girl pants on’ and decided to open her new business after she was made redundant in March.

She was classified as disabled during her work at a charity shop, and concluded she would not be competitive in the jobs market.

Kathryn said they aim to keep meals under £3.50 to allow local schoolchildren to pop in at lunchtime.

In addition, customers can pre-order, and the team will perform short-range deliveries.

Kathryn said: “The opening on Saturday was ever so good. So many people have visited in such a short time, both to wish us well or look at our stock, and we’ve already been brought some lovely goods.

“Most of all, I’m glad there’s something this end of town. We’ve already noticed an increase in footfall here, and we hope it encourages more people to browse or take a look.

“In my time, I’ve worked a variety of jobs, ranging from retail to charity work. I like to think I have a good idea of what the town needs, and that my experience allows me to offer a great service.”