Stow Shop & Post Office, 13-15 Townfoot, Stow, TD1 2QN

An excellent opportunity to acquire a licensed village shop at the centre of a vibrant rural community. The business offers a broad range of convenience items, including groceries, stationery, greeting cards, toys, and household goods.

The premises include a dedicated Post Office counter and benefit from additional services such as Amazon Hub and the National Lottery, driving regular footfall and community engagement.

The property is a Listed building, located within a designated conservation area, adding to its character and appeal. However, prospective buyers should note that any significant alterations or reconfigurations to the current layout may be subject to planning restrictions and could prove challenging.

This is a rare chance to take on a well-established business in a picturesque village, with both commercial potential and heritage charm.

Nestled just 25 miles south of Edinburgh, Stow is a picturesque and thriving village that offers both charm and connectivity. The A7 road runs directly through the village, providing easy access to nearby towns, including Galashiels, which lies just seven miles to the south. Since the reopening of the Borders Railway in 2015, Stow has enjoyed a significant boost in accessibility and visitor numbers, with its own station conveniently located in the heart of the village—complete with a welcoming bar for travelers and locals alike.

Stow is more than just a commuter stop; it’s a vibrant community with essential amenities such as a primary school and a health centre, making it an attractive place for families and professionals. The surrounding area is rich with leisure opportunities, including several popular golf courses that draw regular passing trade. The village also benefits from a steady stream of day-trippers who explore the area via the scenic train route, contributing to a lively and supportive environment for local businesses.

Stow has benefitted from the Borders railway link re-opening in 2015 with station including bar in the village. There is also a primary school and health centre.

There are several golf courses nearby which produce passing trade, with many day trippers spending time in the village when travelling the train line also.

The premises features a welcoming main retail area at the front, thoughtfully arranged with a central gondola and a combination of shelving, freezers, and chillers lining the perimeter, ideal for showcasing a wide range of products. To the right, a spacious service counter provides an efficient point of sale, with tobacco products, vapes, and alcohol securely stored behind the counter for easy access and compliance.

Towards the rear of the shop, a secondary retail space houses the Post Office counter, creating a convenient dual-purpose environment. This area is also used to display an attractive selection of cards, toys, and gifts, enhancing the customer experience and encouraging additional purchases.

Adjacent to the Post Office counter is a private office and storeroom, offering practical space for administrative tasks and inventory management.

Further back, a secondary storage area includes a bathroom, while a third storage cupboard is located at the top of the stairway, providing access to the cellar. Although currently unused, the cellar remains in serviceable condition and could be repurposed for additional storage if required.

We have been advised that all trade fixtures and fittings are owned outright and included within the sale/purchase.

The shop premises form ground and basement levels of a three story brick build tenement building.

This is a Listed building within a conservation area.

This is an exceptional chance to take ownership of an unopposed village shop with an established community Post Office contract, located in the picturesque and highly sought-after village of Stow.

Offered with a brand-new long-term lease, this business presents a secure and rewarding investment in a vibrant rural community.

The premises offer significant potential for growth. With a modest internal refresh and a shift towards a modern convenience-led retail model, possibly through a symbol group partnership, there is ample opportunity to optimise the layout, enhance the customer experience, and drive increased sales.

Strategically positioned to attract both local residents and passing trade, the shop is ideally placed to serve commuters and visitors alike. A new owner could explore extended opening hours, introduce new product lines, or develop services tailored to local demand, all of which could substantially boost turnover.

Whether you're an experienced retailer or an entrepreneur seeking a lifestyle change, Stow Post Office and Village Shop offers a unique blend of community engagement, business potential, and countryside charm.

The business is supported by a dedicated team of five staff members, not including the owner. Among them, two are fully trained to carry out the complete range of Post Office services, ensuring continuity and expertise in this key area of the operation.

For prospective buyers, a full anonymized staff report can be made available upon request, offering detailed insights into roles, responsibilities, and experience levels.

Any transfer of ownership will be subject to the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations (TUPE), ensuring that the rights of any remaining staff are preserved throughout the transition.

Full business accounts can be shared post viewing stage.

Turnover for year end 31.03.24 was 331,675 with adjusted net profit at 33,812. Post Office commission at £21,020 for same period.

Shop
Monday to Friday 6.00am - 5.30pm
Saturday - 6.00am - 4.00pm
Sunday - 8.00am - 11.00am

Post Office Counter
Monday to Friday - 9.00am - 5.30pm
Saturday - 9.00am - 12.30pm
Sunday - Closed

Offered as a new lease with goodwill value at £75,000. Lease term negotiable.

Rental £12,000 per annum.

Stock at valuation at point of entry.

The current Rateable Value as of 1 April 2023 is £4,050. This is subject to status and all interested parties are advised to check with the relevant local Authority.

Alcohol Licence