Those of you that have known the shop since it’s early days will be aware that I have been wanting to make a change to the way the shop looks for a couple of years now. Well it has finally happened.
It started in the 2nd week of January. I moved some of the slat-wall around so that I had more space to display products in the retail area of the shop and less space for displaying bikes. As am no longer selling new bikes I have no need for wall space for them.
![](https://1868racing.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Slatwall.jpg)
![](https://1868racing.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/CounterDestruction.jpg)
Next on a Sunday morning I ripped out the old counters and started building the new one. This was a big step as it meant that I would no longer be able to service bikes until I had a workspace again. Also it meant that I wouldn’t have a phone, till or computer until the new counter was completed. I was hoping that I would have the new counter in place within a week, however like all DIY projects, there were inevitable delays and it took almost two weeks to get the counter top on.
Now I needed to lay the flooring in front of the counter, and stain the woodwork. Two of my least favourite jobs. But I am pleased with the results to say the least. Then began the process of tidying up painting. I needed to get shelves into the counter and the now empty corner of the shop converted into an information centre for the trails.
![](https://1868racing.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/20180123_113125.jpg)
![](https://1868racing.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/20180201_103249.jpg)
![](https://1868racing.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/20180201_150446.jpg)
Not quite completed, but close enough to relaunch the shop in it’s new form. The launch went well, I was so busy talking that I neglected to take any photo’s but it was a good night and everyone who turned up were impressed with the new layout. Also they enjoyed the Coffee that is now on offer to people that visit the store.
![](https://1868racing.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/20180202_153215.jpg)
So, what is next for the shop? Well, now that I am focused on servicing, I will be able to stock more parts, and be able to turn around repairs much faster. I now offer free coffee/tea with every service and free WiFi in the store so you can wait in comfort whilst I fix your bike. I have now started to open on Sundays, in the hope that you will all use me as a meeting point for your Sunday rides in the Gwydyr forest, taking advantage of the free coffee and warmth that the shop will provide.