Warwick is being celebrated as the perfect place to grow a small business after two founders who started as market traders chose the town as the place for their permanent home.

BeHoptimystic, which sells crystal and fossils, and Dog Deli, which provides natural and healthy dog treats, both started as Saturday market traders at Warwick's traditional charter market.

Now, both have permanent premises in Warwick's historic Market Square, forming part of the town's rich independent retail sector, and proving that it's the perfect place to grow a small business.

BeHoptimystic, founded by Katy Saunders, stocks a wide range of crystals, minerals, fossils, jewellery, sage and other items.

Katy, who has a strong interest in spirituality and spiritism, has been collecting crystals, fossils and minerals for over 30 years, and is on hand to help people find what they're looking for.

Catherine Mason established Dog Deli in 2020 with the simple aim of treating dogs to completely natural, healthy treats.

As well as treats, they stock an array of coats, collars, toys, goodies and other dog-related items.

Catherine Mason established Dog Deli in 2020 (image supplied)

Both businesses have proven that Warwick is a thriving place for a growing business, attracting both local residents and people from further afield to shop, work and spend leisure time in thanks to the breadth and depth of its offering from retail to hospitality, culture, history and green spaces, plus a packed programme of events all year round.

Cllr Dave Skinner, Mayor of Warwick, said: "It's wonderful to see two businesses continue their journey after starting as Saturday market traders, taking up residence in what were vacant units in the Market Square and proving that Warwick is a great place if you want to embark on your business journey, or take that next step and grow your company.

"We're hugely proud of Warwick's independent scene, and BeHoptimystic and Dog Deli are two great businesses that make that even richer.

"We're lucky to have a vibrant charter market in Warwick, and the fact that it was the start of a journey that these businesses will continue in our town is a great testament to its success."