A young entrepreneur who owns shops in Rhyl and Prestatyn is seeking a new direction for his family's business as he explores additional avenues for success.Nathan Whiteside, a third-generation newsagent, has successfully overcome the challenges that arise when young individuals enter the retail sector. He has achieved significant success as a franchisee of One Stop.

 

The Whiteside family name has been prominent in Rhyl and Prestatyn since the 1970s. Nathan's grandfather, Sam Whiteside, even served as a former President of the National Federation of Retail Newsagents. Sam instilled strong retail values in his son Phil, who, in turn, passed down this tradition to Nathan.

 

The Whiteside family is well-known for their support and sponsorship of various community groups, including grassroots football teams, school netball teams, a local boxing club, local food banks, and charitable events. Their Rhyl store, in particular, raised £1,000 for the Alzheimer’s Research UK Rhyl Fundraising Group.

 

Previously, they operated their stores under a symbol group, enduring decades of traditional early morning cash-and-carry runs followed by long hours on the shop floor. This experience led Nathan to consider a new direction for the business, which ultimately led him to choose a One Stop franchise.

 

Nathan expressed, "One Stop changed everything for us. The complete infrastructure, combined with the brand's power, completely transformed the dynamics of our business. Previously, it was difficult to earn the trust of new customers, but with the One Stop signage, the automatic trust associated with a respected brand attracted those customers."

 

"As part of a symbol group, it was challenging to find promotions and secure competitive pricing. Meal deals were non-existent, and value-for-money products were rare. Managing stock from the cash and carry was a constant challenge."

 

According to a recent report by the Association of Convenience Stores, 25 percent of retail entrepreneurs are 30 years old or younger. Nathan, falling into this demographic, represents a new generation of independent retailers who bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the sector, unafraid to forge new paths for their businesses.

 

When asked to offer advice to retailers of all ages, Nathan shared, "If you're young and without children, be prepared to work from dawn to dusk. Don't shy away from taking risks or investing money. High turnover doesn't come without effort. Consider every new opportunity."

 

Nathan currently manages two One Stop franchise stores and has become a father to two children since taking on his latest venture. He now has more free time to nurture his family and sees the stores as less of a child and more like a sibling.

 

With a promising future ahead, Nathan is looking to spend less time behind the shop counter. He stated, "It's time to network and explore new horizons. That's the path forward for us now."

 

In addition to continuing to enhance his family's legacy in the retail industry, Nathan is preparing for his father's retirement, with plans to fully take over the business. One day, he hopes to pass the torch to his own children, ensuring the enduring legacy of the Whiteside family in the world of retail.