GOOD to start 2019 with some positive news. Stretford Mall, longtime retail casualty zone, is to get a new foodie destination operated by the enterprising folk behind Ancoats General Store. Stretford Foodhall will take over the 6,000 sq ft ground floor of the former Argos unit as part of a £2.5m revamp of the precinct.
As at Ancoats, the site will be shared between a convenience shop selling a mixture of everyday essentials and more niche gourmet items and a bar and coffee shop, playing host to a rotating street food line-up. An augmented version of the Thursday Scrancoats pop-ups.
It’s a bold move considering the different demographic of Stretford, but AGS owner Mital Morar is convinced this evolved version of the corner shop can work. Crucial will be its ability to attract local artisans to showcase their creations
He said: “We collaborate at Ancoats with street food vendors, local DJs, musicians and artists. We create a space where people want to spend time and where we can work together with local people’s businesses, and talents flourish too.
“We want to hear from people in Stretford. It could be someone who makes their own honey, a local jewellery maker or even a face painter because we want to make the new store as family friendly as possible.
An opening date has yet to be confirmed for the new venue, but it is expected to launch in spring 2019, with opening hours from 7am to 11pm.
Meanwhile work is also about to start on Market 41 in Urmston, dubbed he ‘UK's first new build food market hall' in Urmston. Situated opposite the rail station, it will feature 10 to 12 food and drink operators positioned around a central communal seating area – similar to the template of Altrincham Market House and the in the Northern Quarter’s Mackie Mayor.
With a 160-180 cover hall with mezzanine, private dining and outdoor seating areas, Market 41 is expected to open late in 2019.