The owners of a cherished lingerie shop in Newport have recently announced their plans to retire after 21 successful years in business. Julie Watkiss and Sandra Ayres, who opened What Women Want in Newport’s High Street back in 2004, are now seeking a passionate individual to take over the reins of the beloved establishment.
Julie and Sandra, both former professionals in the banking industry, identified a gap in the market for quality lingerie catering to women with larger bust sizes. This gap led them to establish a local shop offering a range of undergarments, swimwear, nightwear, hosiery, and shapewear, along with a personalized fitting service that has endeared them to customers over the years.
Reflecting on their journey, Sandra emphasized the importance of providing a local and reliable fitting service for bras, a sentiment echoed by Julie, who highlighted the satisfaction of helping customers find the right size and style. The shop has become a community staple, serving customers through various stages of life and earning a loyal customer base through word-of-mouth recommendations.
As the dynamic duo prepares to embark on a new chapter in their lives, which includes more time for travel and family, they are eager to find a successor who shares their values and commitment to customer service. The shop’s reputation extends beyond Newport, attracting visitors from different parts of the country who appreciate the personalized experience What Women Want offers.
Julie and Sandra are enthusiastic about passing on their knowledge and expertise to the next owner, ensuring a smooth transition and continuation of the business’s legacy. They expressed gratitude to their loyal customers for their unwavering support and the memorable moments shared over the years.
With plans to retire by the end of the year, the founders are hopeful that a like-minded individual will step forward to preserve the shop’s legacy and uphold its reputation as a destination for quality lingerie shopping. Their dedication to providing exceptional service and a unique shopping experience has left an indelible mark on the community and the industry at large.
For those interested in taking over What Women Want, Julie and Sandra are offering a supportive handover process, including training, fitting experience, and introductions to industry contacts. Their hope is that the shop will continue to thrive under new ownership and remain a cherished establishment in Newport for years to come.