MALDON is home to a varied collection of independent stores with everything from coffee, fashion and literature on offer. 

Independent retailers are privately owned, offering specialist products and services despite facing competition from larger retailers.

During a recent visit to Maldon High Street, one of our reporters visited three independent shops to find out more about the businesses.

Olivia Rosenthall owns Maldon Books, located at 23 Maldon High Street.

The Standard reported it is expanding to include neighbouring number 21 in the business.

The shop opened in Maldon in December 2019, also selling jigsaws, cards and gift wrap.

Olivia said: “We really enjoy being part of the Maldon community - there’s lots of independent shops here, we all get on pretty well and it’s just a nice place to be.

“I think the community is really supportive of independent businesses in Maldon.

“We’ve got lovely customers, it’s a lovely town.

“We’ve really enjoyed being here on the High Street.”

Meanwhile, Jess Frost has just taken on ownership of clothing shop Willow and Fox, having previously worked for her predecessor.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Owner - Jess Frost, of Willow and FoxOwner - Jess Frost, of Willow and Fox (Image: Conor O'Brien, Newsquest)

It is located at 30 High Street, Maldon.

Jess said: “I own Willow and Fox, which is a women’s gift wear boutique in the High Street.

“I’ve only recently taken over, so this will be my first year trading. I’ve worked here for the past three years for the previous owner, Allison.

“Maldon is a really nice place to have a shop, there’s a lot of independent businesses and a lot of small businesses.

“There’s a lot going on in the High Street.”

Maldon Coffee Company is a family-run business in the heart of the High Street.

Situated at 30A, their journey began on a coffee stall at Chelmsford Farmers Market.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Independent - Sarah Buckley, owner of Maldon Coffee ShopIndependent - Sarah Buckley, owner of Maldon Coffee Shop (Image: Conor O'Brien, Newsquest)

They expanded from a small pitch to a large stall selling more than 65 different plain and flavoured beans, later acquiring their premises in the High Street.

Owner Sarah Buckley, whose children also work at the shop, said: “It’s quite a nice meeting place.

“It’s up-and-coming here; lots of small independent businesses, lots of family run businesses.”