New shared retail space The Tackhouse to launch creative events hub in Neepsend
Response from prospective stallholders has already surpassed initial expectations
A father and son who struggled to find suitable premises for their own vintage furniture business are preparing to open a shared retail hall in a trendy Sheffield district.
Designed to offer independent traders a lower-commitment entry into physical retail, the Burton Road site in Neepsend will feature routine markets, workshops and exhibitions ahead of its planned launch in spring 2027.
Sean and Oliver Keavey's new venture, The Tackhouse, will bring together vintage dealers, artists, makers and other independent businesses across former stables and store buildings. It is planned to open in spring 2027, with the founders due to receive the keys on December 1.
In contrast to temporary pop-up events, the venue provides fixed trading spots alongside its schedule of markets. The inclusion of a shared payment point frees stallholders from having to run their own stands continuously, easing a major operational burden of bricks-and-mortar trading.
While evaluating potential locations around Kelham and Neepsend, as well as surrounding areas, high expenses made securing adequate square footage unviable.
Oliver Keavey said: “We'd been looking at places for a while, but the cost of getting enough space to make it worthwhile just wasn't realistic for us.
“We knew it was far more space than we could justify taking on ourselves, so we started looking at whether we could share it with a few other businesses. The more we talked about it, the more we realised we could potentially create something that would help other people who'd been having the same difficulties as us.”
According to the founders, rent, business rates and staffing costs make it difficult for many small businesses to establish a traditional shop. By adopting a collaborative model, they aim to give traders a more accessible route to connect with shoppers, foster cross-promotions, and participate in local programming.
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Response from prospective stallholders has already surpassed initial expectations prior to key handover.
“There's already so much happening around here, particularly with all the pubs, bars, restaurants and cafés, and there are some brilliant independent shops too,” Oliver said. “We want the place to keep changing, with different stock, different traders and new things to discover. A big part of what we enjoy about vintage is the rummaging and coming across something you didn't know you were looking for. We'd love to bring some of that feeling to The Tackhouse.”
In addition, the scheme incorporates The Overloft, a first-floor space designated for hosting workshops, exhibitions, product launches and community gatherings. Work to fit out the currently unfinished area will commence once the founders take possession of the building.
The Tackhouse is welcoming enquiries from independent traders and organisations interested in using the space.
For further information go to: www.thetackhouseneepsend.co.uk or connect on Instagram: @thetackhouseneepsend