Up Close: Kingfisher Cards and Gifts, Sidmouth

If you've received a really beautiful greetings card lately, or a present that was slightly unusual but exactly right for you, chances are it came from Kingfisher in Sidmouth.

This is where you'll find the kind of stand-out cards, gift wrap and unusual, contemporary gifts you just don't see in chain stores or supermarkets.

Most products are eco-friendly, recyclable, vegan friendly and made in the UK.

All the items on sale are very carefully sourced by the owner of the shop, Tiffany Leach, and her 'bestie' Pip who works there.

The pair go to big trade shows regularly to find new stock – and choose the cards and gifts that really appeal to their own tastes.

And they're certainly doing something right – they're among six finalists in the 'best greeting card retailer newcomer or new branch in the South' category of the Retas greeting card retail awards 2021.

Kingfisher, in the High Street, opened in December 2018 on the Christmas late night shopping evening.

Tiffany told Sidmouth Nub News: "I had already had Black Swan Gifts in Dawlish, so I brought a few best-selling lines to Sidmouth.

"I had always fancied having a shop in Sidmouth and an opportunity came up, so I took it. I've had the Ice Cream Kiosk in front of Dukes for nearly 20 years, so I know Sidmouth well.

"It's a great community, a lovely seaside town and great place to holiday, with coach trips coming regularly too."

Like other 'non essential' retailers, Kingfisher was hit by the Covid pandemic and lockdowns. Tiffany said: "We used the time wisely and started an online shop, which we opened in November 2020.

"It definitely helped, and the locals were great in supporting us. We did click and collect and also delivered in person locally."

On the news of the Retas Awards, she said: "It's exciting news – we're so chuffed to have been nominated. It's so fantastic that all our hard work on the shop floor and behind the scenes hasn't gone unnoticed"

The award-winners will be announced at a ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London in November.

Kingfisher is at 50, High Street, Sidmouth, and can also be found online via its website, Facebook (Kingfisher Cards & Gifts) and Instagram: Kingfisher_Sidmouth.