A new traditional sweet shop has opened its doors in Southport town centre, continuing a family connection with the confectionery trade that stretches back generations.
Candymonium has opened at 2 Eastbank Street, between June The Florist and City Slickers Barbers, offering shoppers a growing selection of traditional sweets served from glass jars.
Owner Anthony Johnson has been developing the shop’s range in response to customer feedback, adding the varieties that local people are keen to see on the shelves.
The new venture also keeps alive a long-standing family tradition. Anthony’s great-grandparents ran the large pick’n’mix stall inside Southport Market for many years.
He also has fond memories of the traditional sweet shop that once stood next to the former ABC Cinema on nearby Lord Street. The cinema was demolished to make way for The Vincent Hotel, which opened in 2008.
Alongside its traditional confectionery, Candymonium sells freshly made milkshakes and a selection of chilled drinks.
Pokémon fans are also catered for, with a dedicated range available inside the shop. Local business DSM Collections is on site every Saturday, as well as on selected additional days, with a large collection of cards available to buy or trade.
The shop has also been attracting attention thanks to its colourful new window artwork featuring Vanellope von Schweetz from Disney’s Wreck-It Ralph.
The artwork was created by Southport-based Maximum Effort Art Club and has provided an eye-catching addition to the Eastbank Street storefront.
Candymonium is the latest independent business to open in Southport’s Market Quarter, joining other recent arrivals including Crumbs & Grind Co, Black Market Coffee and Sweets and Cream.
The new openings are adding to the variety of independent shops, cafés and businesses operating in and around the historic Southport Market area.
Anthony Johnson said:
“I opened Candymonium earlier this summer and would love to let more people know I’m here!
“I worked in the domiciliary care sector for seven years before working at Arden College, and wanted to open my own venture.
“I got married to my wife, Zoe, in September, and thought it was time for a new challenge.
“I have always lived in Southport, and enjoy being here. It’s such a lovely town.
“This is my first business so it’s been both exciting, and also nerve-inducing.
“I’ve gone for opening a traditional sweet shop and pick and mix with a side of Pokémon cards as there is a current boom again with them, as well as some Funko Pop! figures.
“Since opening, I’ve been listening to customers, and building up my stock of traditional sweets according to requests and what’s popular.
“Floral Gums and Cherry Lips are among those which seem to be really sought-after at the moment. I’ve been taking requests from people.
“It’s been really interesting to discover what does well.
“I’m proud to offer great value to my customers as well. We’re very affordable.
“We have quite a few regulars already, who come in every week. We get visitors not just from Southport, but also from places like Liverpool, Wigan, Burnley and elsewhere.
“People can also order online via my Candymonium website, with delivery within the Southport area, or a click and collect service from the shop.
“Everyone loves traditional sweets from glass jars. It’s something which is loved by people of all ages!
“My great grandparents, Wendy and Reg Miller, used to run the famous pick’n’mix stall inside Southport Market. I used to love going in there when I was a kid!
“My Nana has been giving me tips along the way.
“I’m really keen to support local independent businesses in Southport. It’s brilliant how supportive people are towards each other in this town.
“I have a Pokémon range in store, through working with local firm DSM Collections.”
Candymonioum’s artwork has also been attracting shoppers.
Anthony said:
“Our Vanellope von Schweetz window art has been created by Maximum Effort Art Club, who would love to do more window art in this area!
“We have a QR code next to their artwork for anyone who’d like any details about them. You can find them on Facebook too
“It’s been such a great talking point, which has attracted so many people.
“Look out for new Hansel and Gretel themed window art coming this autumn!
“My brother, Samuel Pickernell, has created the artwork behind my counter too which I’m really proud of.”
Candymonium is at 2 Eastbank Street, Southport town centre PR8 1DW, you can visit the website here.
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