AN INDEPENDENT trader based in Northwich is expanding into the online world and looking for a second shop.

The Wow Shop, in Market Way, will start selling personalised and novelty balloons online from the end of July, using Ebay and its own website thewowshop.co.uk

The four-strong team, which is headed by husband and wife team Ian Barstow and Vickkie Howard, is also looking for more premises within Cheshire.

Vickkie, owner and manager of The Wow Shop, said: "Already we serve customers across the north west and have earned ourselves a reputation for really creative balloons and party accessories.

"The move online will see us dramatically increase our reach and really capitalise on the growing online gifts market across the UK.

"It’s for similar reasons that we’re also looking to expand with a second retail site.

"We’re keen to stay in Cheshire but are looking at small units in South Manchester towns where we feel our offer would complement the high street and bring something new to shoppers as well."

Jane Hough, manager of Northwich Business Improvement District (BID), said: "This is such a fabulous success story not only for the Wow Shop team, which has worked tirelessly to build its business and links with the local community, but for Northwich too.

"The town has a strong independent retail offering and the Wow Shop is flying the flag for what independent businesses can achieve here."

The Wow Shop opened its doors in 2012 and celebrates its third anniversary in August.