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Angling Direct Wigan Grand Opening
There was the small matter of England Vs Sweden kicking off at 3pm in the World Cup Quarter Finals, but this didn’t distract the masses from descending on the shop to join in the celebration of a year’s hard work, and put the shop firmly on the map.
The day started with Paul Duffin (store manager) making a small speech to thank all his staff for their hard work, as well as the queue of some 90 people for being there to mark the occasion and support the shop. As the ribbon was cut in came the crowds, all astounded by the difference in not only the cosmetics but the huge variety of tackle available across coarse, sea, carp and fly fishing. The former North West Angling Centre had been a place which, in recent times, needed the investment and modernisation that Angling Direct have brought to the shop.
With the day underway the crowds continued to stream in, and once through the door they certainly weren’t disappointed. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and customers enjoyed the experience, not to mention meeting angling superstars that had join us in store for the day.
Before long the 200 free goody bags had gone, and the store was still as busy as ever.
The Aqua products dream team of Andy (Chod) and Jack Bradshaw were stationed outside and displayed bivvies, luggage and fish care products, the like of which were extremely popular.
Nick Speed from Shimano was in store, talking through all things match fishing, and helping point people in the right direction when it came to tackle, rods and reels, as well as great local venue knowledge.
The legendary match angler Dave Swain from Dynamite baits was demonstrating rigs and bait preparation for those who wanted a few pointers from his extensive match fishing experience.
The Mainline Baits dream team of Jon ‘Shoes’ Jones and John Kneebone were answering all questions on carp baits, as well as giving a detailed account of the awesome new The Link bait.
From Maver we had Andy Oldham, Dale Shepard and Sarah Phoenix all talking through a first look at their new Signature Pro Range which is set to be a major favourite with all match and coarse anglers alike.
Finally, the RidgeMonkey boys Chris Appleby, Alan Tring, and Alex MacDonald talked through the whole of the terminal tackle and accessories range, with expert knowledge providing a very clear and helpful guide to customers.
As if that wasn’t enough, there was a free bait boat give away that store staff co-ordinated, with the winner being the person with the correct score prediction on the up coming England match.
The day was incredibly well attended, and the feedback across the board was awesome. We would like to thank all the attendees, both customers and anglers, for making the occasion so special; if you are ever up north, don’t for get to pop into Angling Direct Wigan for a brew and check it out yourself.
