The Newest, Funkiest store in town....ANIMAL!!

The old handyman's shop, for me, has never quite been the same since closing and in all honesty I never believed that it would regain any of its sense of charm and character.  That was, however, until James Powell and his wife, Teresa, took the store over and gave it a new lease of life.

Located near the bottom of the high street, the store was completely gutted and a new, fresh and funky interior installed incorporating Animal's trademark colours and clean look with the individual strong design ideas of James and Teresa.

James, who has been involved in the running of Yachtmail for the last 22 years and took it over, with his wife, 10 years ago is finely in tune with the wants and needs of Lymington High Street and its shoppers.  With a teenage girl of 14 he and Teresa have long been aware of a key area yet to be filled in the high street, and jumped at the idea to take over the store and develop it into a young and popular store suited for kids, teens and young adults alike, with a children’s range from 2-14 and an adults range.

Opened on 3rd February 2007, by Animal ‘team rider’ Timo Mullen, the store has immediately attracted the attention that was anticipated and business has been booming ever since.  As an important member of the Lymington community the opening of the store for James has been more than just another adventure but also a way in which to maintain the individuality of our High Street with less opportunities for larger chains to invade.  James’ pride in both of his stores is evident to anyone who has the chance to speak with him, and his newest edition he calls his “statement store” and sees as his stand against such larger companies.

The minimalistic layout of the store gives a chic impression and the perfect housing for the priceless Animal merchandise, signed by team riders including Timo Mullens, Kirsty Jones and Alan Stokes to name just a few, that litter any available wall in the store. Also cleverly included are two large LCD screens playing clips of animal team riders, from bikes to surf and snow to water, undertaking any possible crazy stunts to keep the men entertained whilst the family are still busily looking at and trying on the beautiful collection available in store!

Just ended is an instore competition to win an Animal ‘beach cruiser’ bike.  The prize draw will take place on Saturday 5^th May and the prize will be personally handed over by team rider Timo Mullen providing, of course, that surfs not up! Watch this space for details of the next giveaway competition in store…..

If you’re in Lymington High Street, definitely pop in to browse the range, enjoy the store, and chat to the friendly staff always on hand to give advice and help.  And if you’re not in the town….well, get to Animal as it’s just another brilliant reason to visit our lovely town! HM