Homebuilder champions Hitchin independents as part of new campaign

Cala Homes has launched a new initiative to support local businesses surrounding its Hurlocke Fields development in Hitchin, as part of a new, first-of-its-kind campaign.

Launched this year, the development's 'Showhome of Support' has seen the major homebuilder work with small retailers and creators in and around Hitchin - giving local independents a platform to showcase their products, produce and designs.

Cala has worked with its interior designers and half a dozen small businesses across Hitchin, who have come together to help accessorise its Oatvale and Jayfield showhomes.

Independents taking part in the initiative, with items on display in the homes, include:

The Little Deli Shop - Showcasing a selection of tasty artisanal packaged food items in the kitchen from the family-run delicatessen in the heart of Hitchin

Baron beer and Beer Shop Hitchin - A selection of local beers from the town centre tap room, in addition to a branded baseball cap, tote bag and coasters

Hitchin Lavender - A selection of lavender-infused products from the nearby flower-farm, which offers splendid views of its lavender fields during summer months

Holy Cow Kids - a selection of toys from the fantastic family-run toy shop

The Vintage Bay - framed playing card artwork, to adorn the wall of the showhome's study

Culture Trend - a wooden tray from the local artisan homeware shop, which specialises in vintage, curios and eclectic gifts

Hurlocke Field's two showhomes are the first in the region to celebrate local suppliers in this way, and Cala hopes to expand the initiative across future developments.

All featured local businesses have been signposted throughout the property and promoted on the housebuilder's website with a bespoke landing page, as the developer looks to showcase the local talent.

Glenn Copper, Sales & Marketing Director for Cala Homes North Home Counties, said: "This is a brand new, first-of-its-kind initiative and we are incredibly excited to be rolling it out across Hitchin.

"We are passionate about building communities, not just homes, and Showhome of Support is designed to give a platform to some of the amazing independent retailers and local talent we have on our high street.

"Hurlocke Fields is an ideal development to launch this initiative, as it benefits from so many fantastic independent shops right on its doorstep. It's in a prime location for people looking for a perfect balance of town and country living, which is reflected in the abundance and quality of local suppliers.

"So many small businesses were hit by the pandemic, so we want to offer them an extra opportunity to reach new homebuyers who might be moving to the area and unaware of the local products on offer. By working in partnership with local businesses and creators in the community in this way, we will be bringing a real unique flavour into our homes of what Hertfordshire has to offer."

Cala's range of one- and two-bed apartments and two, three-and four-bed semi-detached and detached houses will offer contemporary living to suit homebuyers across all walks of life - whether first time buyers, growing families, or downsizers.

Additionally, there will also be several options for three storey properties, which are more energy efficient than two storey homes. 99 homes will be private units, with 17 allocated as housing association.

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For more information on Cala's Showhome of Support please visit www.cala.co.uk/showhomeofsupport  and to find out about Hurlocke Fields, please visit /www.cala.co.uk/homes-for-sale/south-east-england/hertfordshire/hurlocke-fields-hitchin/