National brands and new independents have been setting up shop in the centre of Hull as the city adds to its retail appeal.

Three new outlets have opened their doors in St Stephen’s Shopping Centre, bringing new options to the food and drink sector. The theme continues in Savile Street with the arrival of Shake It! – a buzzing new venue with a healthy take on fast food – and high-end home entertainment specialist The Audio Room.

Darren Bamford opened The Audio Room in Hedon 18 years ago and revealed the next step resulted from buying a pair of shoes! “I was aware of the building on Savile Street but I didn’t think it would be big enough,” said Darren. “But I was buying some shoes one day and Mark Read told me the place was probably bigger than I thought, so I had a look and decided to move in.

“We’re very sad to leave Hedon because it’s a lovely shop but the new premises are perfect for our range of premium home entertainment equipment.”

Clare Dundas opened Shake It! in Savile Street after being inspired by the Shakeaway empire, which has been creating a froth in the south since 1999. She said: “We use natural flavouring and colourings in our milkshakes. In most of our mixes there’s nothing artificial, it’s fat-free, it’s part of your five-a-day and the variety we offer is written on the wall to catch your attention.”

The Real China Express has proved very popular since opening recently in St Stephen’s

Shopping Centre, where it has been joined by Krispy Kreme and Bagel Nash. Centre Manager Jim Harris said: “The arrival of these businesses is part of a general increase and improvement in our food offer.

“All three businesses are making a big difference, adding to the colour and attracting the interest of everybody who walks through the centre.”

SOUND MOVE: Darren Bamford's business The Audio Room plans to open in Savile Street. Photo by Chris Oaten (www.otenphotography.co.uk)