‘It’s a really big moment’: Progress update on Queensgate’s new independent book shop and cafe as location revealed

The location of a new independent book shop and cafe in Peterborough’s Queensgate Shopping Centre has been revealed, with just weeks to go until its grand opening.

Stamford-based Ink & Ember is set to open its new Queensgate shop this summer after a hugely successful first year of trading in the town.

The shop’s owner, Lauren Lovett, is currently awaiting the keys for the new shop and hopes to be up and running by July.

She told the Peterborough Telegraph: “I’ve got people asking me everyday when we’re going to open and they’re so excited.

“The support on Instagram has been phenomenal, so I am pushing it through as fast as I can to get it open because I know people are chomping at the bit to make it their new coffee shop and book club.”

Ink & Ember’s new Queensgate shop will be located on the centre’s ground floor, close to the escalators and Sports Direct.

The announcement of the new Queensgate site came as part of a rebrand for the business, with new colour schemes and interior designs for both shops.

The new Peterborough shop will be known as ‘The Burrow’ and have a Wes Anderson-style theme.

All roles for the new shop have been filled, including store manager and baristas.

“We had hundreds of applicants, it was really tough. I struggle with things like that because I want to give everyone a job,” Lauren adds.

“We found some amazing people, plus some lovely work experience people. We’ve reached out to the college about giving their students some business experience in the book shop.”

Much like its sister site in Stamford, the new Queensgate shop will also operate a 20-seat cafe and run creative workshops.