Hammerson and Appear Here teamed up to launch Up Market, an initiative to introduce new and emerging independent retailers to Hammerson’s UK portfolio of leading shopping centres.

Up Market is a collection of independent makers, crafters, designers and artisans curated by Appear Here. Launching at the iconic Bullring, Birmingham, Up Market will bring a rotating lineup of the region’s best up-and-coming food, fashion and lifestyle brands.

As part of the three-year agreement, Appear Here will curate commercial mall space in Hammerson centres, with four Up Markets planned in the first year in Bullring; Brent Cross, London; Cabot Circus, Bristol; and Victoria Quarter, Leeds.

Each Up Market will run for a minimum of eight weeks, providing local entrepreneurs with the opportunity to trial new products and concepts on a large scale in a trusted retail environment. Independent retailers can rent space for as little as £300/week.

Brands already signed up to Up Market at Bullring include local Birmingham businesses The Sweet Potato Spirit Co. (sweet potato spirits handcrafted in copper stills), Zero Skin (natural and organic skincare whipping up a storm on Instagram), Bug (eclectic silver jewellery), Jam Jar Lights (quirky lights and accessories), The Strawberry Stop (fresh strawberry pots) and Miss Macaroon (macaroons with a social conscience).

Located on the premium Upper East Mall surrounded by popular stores such as Whistles, All Saints and Swarovski, Up Market is a great opportunity for young brands to engage with Bullring’s 36 million shoppers.