Willen Hospice has opened a new store in the heart of the new city, dedicated to all things music.
Off The Record is the perfect place for vinyl junkies and cassette heads to get their fix of sounds old and new, and it's operating from the perfect location, tucked just inside the iconic space of The Point.
“We couldn’t have picked a better location if we tried! It’s a hub of activity all day long, with passing shoppers, market-stall visitors, students, bus passengers and commuters,” said commercial manager Kevin Chappell, “The striking front signage is attracting attention and people are popping in to see what the shop is all about.”
The store only opened last week, and it has already done a swift business in sales of CDs...and violins!
“We have had some customers and collectors coming in and finding vinyl they either haven’t seen for decades - and some who are finding really obscure albums they had never even seen!” Kevin said.
“We’ve also had requests for mid-century record player stands and cabinets. Shoppers are upcycling these traditional, solid piece of retro furniture, adding Bluetooth speakers and bringing the tech up to date for a better sound quality.”
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If you are a music fan looking for a way to make your way back to the workplace, want to kickstart your retail career or get out and about in the community more, do consider volunteering your time at Off The Record.
“We would love to hear from people who have a passion for music," Kevin agreed, “Even if they volunteer for a few hours a week, it will be great to have their knowledge. We really need someone with knowledge of the 78rpm market so we can get a fair price for the Hospice.
"If they can chat to people about music, that’s the main requirement; we will train them on the tills and running of the shop, etc. It’s a good opportunity for someone to learn more about retail, build their skills, or add experience to their CV.”
Off The Record isn't limited to vinyl though; CDs, artist biographies, sheet music, instruments, storage options, music magazines and all sorts of merchandise will all be stocked.
TV and film items – from DVDs to collectables – are also for sale, and volunteers will welcome your donations to keep a fresh turnover of stock in the building.
The new store will also double as a collection point for its eBay shop, and proceeds will go to enable the Hospice to continue to offer free care to those that need it. Sounds good to us!
> Off the Record is open Monday - Saturday, 10am - 4pm.
> To apply as a volunteer click here
Image: Kevin Chappell with volunteer Graham Bishop
