£11,000 grants awarded to community-focused Stockport hospitality businesses

Two independent hospitality businesses in Stockport have been given a boost, as Mellors in Romiley and Pure Innovations in Hazel Grove each secure £11,000 grants to support their business.

The businesses are among 20 independent restaurants and cafes across Manchester and London who successfully bid for a share of £220,000 in grant funding. Run by the International Downtown Association (IDA) Foundation in partnership with the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM) and supported by American Express, the programme celebrates culturally significant, independently owned restaurants and cafes that play a vital role in their neighbourhoods.

The funding will allow these community-focused venues to enhance their operations, improve customer experiences, and continue making a difference locally.

Cllr Micheala Meikle, Cabinet Member for Economy, Regeneration & Skills at Stockport Council, said:

“This is fantastic news for our local hospitality sector. Stockport’s independent restaurants and cafés are at the heart of our communities, and it’s brilliant to see them receiving funding that will strengthen their future and celebrate the work they do every day.”

Pure Innovations, based in Hazel Grove, is a registered charity that empowers adults with disabilities or health-related challenges to live fulfilled, independent lives They currently operate from four sites across Stockport, including cafes at Vernon and Etherow Parks,and the Windmill and Pure Kitchen in the town centre.

Robert Baker, Catering Manager at Pure Innovations, said:

“We are incredibly grateful to receive funding through the BISR Programme. This support will allow us to invest in a new till system and update our café furniture at Etherow Country Park, creating a more welcoming and efficient space. Most importantly, it helps us continue our mission of empowering adults with disabilities, while providing an inclusive and community focused space for our customers.”

Mellors, a coffee shop and community hub in Romiley, has been at the heart of the village for 18 years. The grant is helping them to replace essential equipment and refresh their indoor and outdoor seating, giving the venue a vibrant new look.

Cheryl Taylor at Mellors said:

“We were over the moon to receive this grant! Rising costs meant it had become very difficult to replace essential equipment and worn furniture. The funding has allowed us to purchase new equipment. We’ve also redecorated and reopened, with a fresh new look — we hope it will attract new customers and increase footfall. This grant truly gives us a bright new start at the heart of Romiley.”

Romiley continues to shine as one of Stockport’s most vibrant and community-focused district centres, with a packed calendar of events that bring residents together and boost local footfall. Supported by the Council, the Forum Theatre and the Romiley Traders Association, activities range from outdoor festivals and live entertainment to popular regular events such as the Village Market and Food on Friday. Sustainability projects improved public spaces and new walking and cycling routes highlight Romiley’s forward-thinking approach. Strong independent traders and excellent transport links further reinforce Romiley as a thriving destination for residents and visitors alike.