There’s a new buzz around Wrexham, and it’s coming from an exciting independent business. The Hive Wrecsam puts local traders, fresh produce and community spirit at the heart of everything it does. Even better, it lets the businesses on its shelves keep every penny they take.
The Story Behind The Hive Wrecsam
The Hive is the brainchild of local entrepreneur Fern Evans. Her passion for supporting small businesses and bringing people together has created a welcoming new destination for shoppers. It’s the perfect place to find something a little different.
Fern has been self-employed since 2014. At first, she worked in hospitality, running bars and bistro businesses. Then, after the Covid pandemic, she moved into mobile catering in 2022.
In February 2023, she took over the running of Wrexham Monthly Street Market. Over the next three years, she organised monthly markets alongside special events for occasions such as Halloween and Pride Wrecsam. Her work earned a High Commendation from NABMA and a Make a Difference Award for Community Spirit from the F. Jones Initiative.
A Home for Local Businesses
Fern wanted to take things one step further. While monthly markets gave traders a valuable platform, many small businesses needed somewhere to sell more regularly. However, running their own shop was often too expensive.
And so, The Hive Wrecsam was born. For just £40 a month, local businesses can set up their own stall in the shop. The Hive manages the stalls and handles sales on their behalf, so traders don’t need to be there to make a sale.
Here’s the really impressive part: traders keep 100% of their takings. The Hive doesn’t charge commission, which keeps overheads low and earnings high. For customers, it means an ever-changing selection of local products under one roof.
Fresh, Local and Full of Flavour
Step inside and you’ll discover freshly baked bread, farm-fresh eggs, pies and pastries, and cheeses and dairy products. There are also homegrown vegetables and an irresistible range of homemade cakes and sweet treats. In short, it’s a foodie’s dream.
Alongside the food, shoppers can explore locally made crafts and unique gifts. They’re ideal for birthdays and special occasions, or simply for treating yourself. With Christmas coming, they’re well worth a look.
By bringing so many suppliers together, The Hive makes it easier than ever to shop locally. It also makes quality local produce more accessible and affordable. That’s good news for the businesses and the customers alike.
Bringing the Butcher Back to Town
One of The Hive’s biggest attractions has been missing from Wrexham city centre for some time. It’s a traditional butcher’s counter, and it’s currently the only one in the centre. The counter is supplied by respected family business Jamie Ward’s of Chirk.
Customers can choose from quality fresh and cooked meats, plus a tempting range of deli products. What’s more, if something isn’t on the counter, The Hive can order it for collection the next day. It’s a welcome alternative to relying on supermarkets.
Fern is keen to expand the counter, but there’s an important balance to keep. Because food waste is a major concern, The Hive manages its stock carefully. Simply put, the more people support the counter, the bigger the range can grow.
Something Tasty While You Shop
The Hive isn’t just somewhere to pick up your weekly essentials. Visitors can also enjoy freshly prepared food and hot drinks. That makes it an inviting place to stop for a bite to eat.
The menu includes sourdough toasties and freshly made baps. They’re made with the same quality ingredients that are for sale in the shop. So, you can try before you buy.
It’s another clever way to showcase the local produce on offer. It also gives shoppers a reason to linger. Before long, you may well find a new favourite.
Keeping the Community Spirit Alive
Although The Hive is now a permanent indoor home for traders, Fern hasn’t turned her back on outdoor events. She continues to organise regular markets and community activities at Eagles Meadow. These include local producers’ markets and events with WrexFest and other groups.
There’s also an exciting three-day indoor Christmas market on the way. It will give local businesses another chance to reach new customers during the festive season. Keep an eye on The Hive’s social media for dates.
For Fern, these events remain an important part of bringing people together. They also celebrate everything Wrexham’s independent businesses have to offer. It’s a model built on collaboration rather than competition.
Visit The Hive Wrecsam
At its heart, The Hive Wrecsam is about much more than selling products. It’s about creating opportunities, supporting entrepreneurs and keeping money in the local economy. Every purchase helps another small Wrexham business grow.
The Hive is open Wednesday to Saturday, from 9.30am to 4pm. So, next time you’re heading into Wrexham, why not see what’s creating all the buzz? You might just find your new favourite local producer.
Shop local, support independent businesses and help Wrexham thrive. For more ideas on where to spend your money locally, explore our local business features. There’s plenty to discover.
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