Visitors to a shopping mall can enjoy an increased range of opportunities with two new stores opening this month.

The first to open was Green Duck Emporium, which offers a wide range of lifestyle items, from soap and candles to homeware and furniture.

They will be followed later this month by the Belgravia Hair Group's new hair and beauty salon at the Royal Victoria Place centre in Tunbridge Wells.

The Green Duck Emporium is the brainchild of Matt Elesmore, who was previously a theatre stage manager before the pandemic.

Mr Elesmore, who is himself from Tunbridge Wells, decided to turn his hand to retail after losing his job during the Covid-19 crisis.

His first Green Duck Emporium in Grosvenor Road, Tunbridge Wells, has proved a success with customers enjoying his quirky collection of furniture and one-off pieces which reflect his love of the arts from his former career.

He has a second branch in Brighton and already employs 10 people and will be looking to recruit more staff for his new venture.

Mr Elesmore said: “We are proud to be part of the range of independent retailers in Tunbridge Wells, and we are excited to be expanding our offering to Royal Victoria Place. When we were looking at a new venue, RVP stood out as the perfect home for us and we’re excited to begin trading.

“Green Duck Emporium offers something for everyone. If you’re looking for interior design inspiration, a one-off piece of beautiful furniture or a special gift, we’ve got a range of unique pieces for you to browse.”

Meanwhile the Belgravia Hair Group will offer all treatments and services under one roof, including complete hair services, nail extensions and beauty treatments.

Owner Ves McLean said: "We’re really happy to be in final stages of our launch plans and when we’re open we hope to bring something new and fresh to the hair and beauty offering at Royal Victoria Place.”

“Whether it’s the monthly nail touch-up you promised yourself or if you want to experiment with a new hairdo, we’ll make it effortless for our customers to book an appointment with us. We’re looking forward to welcoming more customers in Tunbridge Wells and are also looking to expand in the future with a Belgravia hair and beauty academy.”

Nicky Blanchard, the centre manager at Royal Victoria Place, said: "We’re thrilled to be opening our doors to two new retailers. We hope that customers continue to support the growing number of independent stores at the centre to help give back to the local community.”

The Royal Victoria Place is already home to brands including Fenwick, M&S, Next, L’Occitane and Pandora.