06:30, 23 December 2024
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
At not just a shop, every product tells a story of passion, dedication, and creativity. Whether it's a recent graduate, an emerging artist, or a seasoned maker, the items available represent hours of artistic endeavour. When customers shop at not just a shop, they’re not just buying a product—they’re supporting an artist’s journey and their commitment to their craft.
As a not-for-profit that values authenticity and creativity, not just a shop stands apart from the typical retail model. Rather than participating in Black Friday sales or impulse-driven purchases, the shop reinvests all proceeds into supporting students and graduates with their business ventures. This commitment helps artists hone their skills and grow their businesses.
not just a shop is more than just a store—it’s a community. All the proceeds from retail sales are used to fund enterprise learning activities that support emerging makers. These include: mentoring, competitions and helping students turn ideas into market-ready products.
Beyond retail hours, the shop also transforms into an event and enterprise space, hosting product launches, networking events, and workshops. This dual-purpose space fosters collaboration and community growth, allowing students and makers to connect and expand their networks.
Students and graduates from all UAL colleges can submit their work for sale through biannual open calls. Products are selected by a panel of UAL staff, students, and industry experts. not just a shop purchases products upfront at a wholesale price, eliminating any financial risk for students and graduates.
The shop runs competitions and live briefs throughout the year, giving students the opportunity to commercialise their work. These initiatives help students turn their creative ideas into real-world products and gain valuable business experience.
One of their most recent briefs from earlier this year called 'Home' took place in collaboration with interior designers at 2LG Studio. As a result, a product launch of a unique collection of tea towels and napkins that featured a blend of personal stories, cultural influences, and creative expression, offering unique, handcrafted pieces that bring warmth and personality into your home.
This Christmas, not just a shop encourages shoppers to support small, sustainable businesses and buy local. By purchasing from independent makers, customers are helping to foster a creative economy where artists can thrive.
Here are five incredible UAL Alumni businesses to shop from this festive season:
Through not just a shop, artists gain the resources and platform they need to succeed. The shop also runs business enterprise activations to help students and alumni grow their brands. For example, Martina, owner of Blackmarket, shares her success story and how the shop has helped her brand grow in this inspiring video: Martina’s Story. You can also shop Martina’s products here.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
Crafts Council. The Crafts Council promotes and supports British craft, helping artisans and makers grow their businesses, enhance their skills, and gain visibility. Their work in nurturing the craft community directly. Find out more.
Social Enterprise UK. This charity is the leading voice for social enterprises in the UK, advocating for businesses that put people and the planet first. Learn more here.
The Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI). This charity works to promote the rights of workers in global supply chains, ensuring that businesses commit to ethical practices, fair wages, and sustainability. Support them here.
