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Aug 09, 2023

New stationery shop 'Mooch' opens in former Winchester Paperchase shop

AN up-and-coming stationery chain has opened in the former Paperchase shop in Winchester city centre. Mooch welcomed customers to its new store in St George’s Street for the first time on Thursday,

AN up-and-coming stationery chain has opened in the former Paperchase shop in Winchester city centre.

Mooch welcomed customers to its new store in St George’s Street for the first time on Thursday, August 31.

The Winchester base is the 12th Mooch shop opened by Cardzone, which has taken over former Paperchase units across the country.

Inside Mooch (Image: Adele Bouchard)

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As well as stationery and cards, the shop sells gifts such as construction sets, toys and mugs.

Speaking on launch day, Cardzone’s commercial manager, Kim Baker, said: “It’s a shame about the weather because yesterday was so busy with people wanting to come in but the feedback has been really positive.

Mooch, St George's Street (Image: Adele Bouchard)

“We saw an opportunity when Paperchase went into administration and always had this model on the back burner. We have reinvented ourselves and moved with the times. This is a bit more contemporary and on-trend but still has the traditional element of cards. We’re catering for everyone.

Step inside Mooch 🎉#Winchester's newest stationery shop, taking over the former Paperchase unit. Cards, gifts and toys galore!#VisitWinchester pic.twitter.com/F8dEjAevQZ

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“The reaction has been really great. People love the window displays, the name and the range of products. Our gift selection is what makes us different from Paperchase, we look out for small suppliers who can bring something new but also have big brands like Wrendale and Chilly's.”

Inside Mooch (Image: Adele Bouchard)

The family card company, Cardzone, began in 2005 and opened its first Mooch stores this year as a more modern brand.

Ms Baker said: “We always wanted to be in Winchester. The business owner has a strong connection to Winchester. We cherry-picked the best locations for Mooch.”

The shop currently has six to eight members of staff but plans to recruit more for the Christmas period.

Mooch will next be opening in Chichester and the Cribbs Causeway in Bristol.

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