The owner of a clothing business has launched a new store after his pop-up in Elm Park was ordered to shut by Havering Council.
Juju’s The Style Closet's new boutique was due to open in Butts Green Road, Hornchurch today (November 10).
Its owner Anthony Button, 38, had been trading from Benhurst Avenue, Elm Park since June but he was told by council officers in September to remove it for not having a street licence.
Anthony claimed that he had tried contacting the council while starting his business for help with a licence application but “no one called them back”.
Read More: 'We were bringing fun': Pop-up clothes store closes after council intervention
A council spokesperson had said that their allocation of street pitches was full and had encouraged Anthony to trade in Romford Market.
But Anthony refused the suggestion, as he believed “not everyone wants to always go to Romford Market”.
He added: “Unfortunately, we could not find a place in Elm Park but I got to know about this site that was available and seemed affordable, and we decided to give it a shot."
According to Anthony, the store in Hornchurch will be bigger than the pop-up and will have more varieties of items, adding bags and accessories to their offering.
During the shop’s opening weekend, Anthony claimed they will also be giving out free cupcakes, special offers and a glass of bubbles to visitors.
“We often get people who just come in for a chat too, so it's very nice to build this community and bring good vibes to the place.
"That’s what we have always tried to do," he said.
In addition to the Hornchurch store, Anthony said he is also opening a shop in Grays, Essex so they will have not one but two outlets running.
Anthony first started his business with the money his nan had left for him.
Juju's The Style Closet landed a nomination in the best newcomer category at this year’s Havering Small Business Awards.
