December 9, 2011 3.25 pm This story is over 147 months old

Purse company bags Sincil Street shop

Bagged up: A new local entrepreneur has set up a bag shop in Lincoln.
Banks Long & Co surveyor Matthew Brooks with Le Sac owner Mark Wilson

A new company specialising in bags has set up shop in a unit in Lincoln city centre.

Marks & Spencer employee Mark Wilson decided to set up his own business, Le Sac, which sells handbags, luggage and accessories, by obtaining a shop on Sincil Street.

However, Wilson still plans to work for Marks & Spencer while his business is in the early stages. He is currently working alongside his business partner Chris Uttley.

The shop was let by Banks Long & Co on behalf of Lincolnshire Co-op, who own the unit. Wilson said: “I have worked for Marks & Spencer for nearly 10 years.

“I chose to open in Sincil Street because it means my shop will attract the attention of commuters and shoppers walking past on their way to and from the St Mary’s Street railway station, the city’s bus station and the markets area.

“I’m already pleased with my decision because this move has created a job formy partner Chris, the shop is attracting attention and we are looking to boost our ranges, with the addition of further accessories, such as jewellery.”

The shops in the area are part of plans to transform the east of Lincoln into the Lindongate shopping complex.

Surveyor for Banks Long & Co Matthew Brooks said shops in the area will eventually have to move out, though there will be other opportunities for the business affected.

Brooks said: “This area is currently under the spotlight as part of major investment plans by Lincolnshire Co-operative to regenerate the area to create the multi-faceted Lindongate project.

“This means that shop units in Sincil Street currently offer businesses fantastic flexibility, which is an important factor, particularly for new enterprises and for people who want a cost-effective way of trialling a retail venture.

“This deal means that the occupier will definitely be able to stay in their premises until January 31, 2013, after which there will be regular “get out” points, which can be used by the occupier or Lincolnshire Co-operative – provided six months notice is given.”