HOBBYCRAFT has confirmed plans to open seven new stores next year as bosses continue to grow the business. 

The Hurn-based arts and crafts retailer recently opened a new store in Branksome in September 2023 taking the total over the past four years to 26. 

While simplified access to the online world has led to a shift in prioritisation for many retail businesses, Hobbycraft regards its stores as a vital hub for its customers. 

Chief executive Dominic Jordan said: “Our continued store roll out across the UK illustrates the importance we place in providing customers with a physical presence to gain the full art and craft experience. 

“We want to build a communal space for crafters across the UK to build their passion for craft and enhance their creativity, with seven new stores scheduled to open in 2025 and further expansion thereafter.” 

Every new store consists of a dedicated digital crafting space and haberdashery area allowing customers to test drive products before purchasing, which has led to a year-on-year rise in sales of stitching kits (11 per cent) and fabric by the metre (43 per cent).  

Regular workshop sessions are hosted by a staff designed to give everyone the opportunity to master a new craft, leading to a year-on-year rise in workshop sales (23 per cent). 

Over the past three years, 325 new job roles have been created with a further 105 roles expected to be created with Hobbycraft’s scheduled store openings for 2025.