Antiques traders from the Rye Emporium and the Potting Shed have moved into Channon’s former store in Rye market.
The traders’ old premises off Winchelsea Road are on the site which is subject to planning applications for an Aldi supermarket, 16 new homes and retirement flats.
One of the dealers at Rye Emporium, Jonathan Boyle, said the two stores recently reopened with a total of five traders — comprising two from the old site and three new occupants.
According to Mr Boyle, several traders with stock in the old Winchelsea Road premises have decided to stay at the former site for the time being. He doesn’t expect that more than five dealers will operate out of the market location.
The new premises are smaller than the old Emporium and Potting Shed but Mr Boyle said it took “four days of hard work” to transfer stock. It’s understood the buildings are owned by the Rye Cattle Market Company, a firm founded in 1859.
Mr Boyle said the central position of the new premises is an advantage and that “After opening for a week, we’re delighted with the amount of customers coming through”.
Products for sale include furniture, vintage items, mirrors, rugs, soft furnishings, lighting and books.
Channon’s Country Store, an iconic presence in Rye since 1977, closed earlier this year.
Image Credits: David Worwood .
Delighted to hear this news.