Cargo is part of Bristol’s glamorous new Wapping Wharf development.  Whenever I visit my friend in Bristol, it is our go-to destination for lunch and a bit of shopping and is a great example of placemaking.

Cargo is a relatively large container park with approximately 35 local businesses operating out of it which has swiftly become not only a destination in its own right, but a wonderful community for the retailers who operate there, and a fantastic attraction to those looking for new homes in the development.

Described by many of the operators as the perfect solution to their requirements for their first bricks and mortar store, Cargo is a great launch pad for restauranteurs, entrepreneurs, retailers and up and coming niche brands.  Great examples are: The Pickled Brisket; a dedicated salt beef bar, serving locally sourced hot salt beef sandwiches, Something Elsie; vintage retro clothing and accessories, The Bristol Cheesemonger and The Clifton Seafood Company which sell seafood caught in home waters.  Not to mention Bandook – a fun, Bollywood themed Indian diner from the team that created the award-winning Mint Room restaurants in Bath and Bristol.

There is also yoga, massage and wellness, bubble tea, cider, craft beer plus a plethora of food, gifts and ethical clothing.

With regular events which see the retailers working closely alongside and supporting each other, Cargo really is a great example of the retail world being fantastically alive and kicking, just in a slightly different guise.  The community spirit and fun atmosphere translates into the customer experience and makes Cargo a place you want to keep going back to.