Our Story
Where it all began
It started with a vision to create something beautiful. To make a destination for exceptional gifts, homeware and apparel all gathered under one roof, welcoming to everyone and filled with originality and unique finds. Read on to discover the story behind Brocante and its creators, Kieron and David.
Kieron and David
It was back in 1997 that Kieron, studying retail management at university, met David, an area manager for a women’s fashion brand. Originally from Dundee, David already had considerable experience working at major national stores. Kieron happily commenced his retail working life in Manchester yet harboured a dream of owning his own shop. Increasingly, they found themselves spending time in Kieron’s home county of Cornwall (well, who wouldn’t)? It was on one of their visits that they spotted and fell in love with a little shop in the pretty fishing village of Mevagissey on the southern Cornish coast. It was for sale. The Brocante journey was about to begin.
The doors open
the first shop
In 2006 Brocante opened its doors in the fishing port of Mevagissey. Soon the former fisherman’s cottage on Fore Street, artfully arrayed with carefully selected pieces, was buzzing. Kieron opened up seven days a week while David, still working in Manchester, drove down at weekends, his car weighed down with stock which the pair would excitedly unpack. It soon became clear they were outgrowing that tiny space and when an old butcher’s shop with lofty windows on a prominent corner became available, Brocante moved to its current Mevagissey location. With more space, the shop became a place to linger and chat, and a destination for tourists and local inhabitants alike. Yet the duo’s creative flair, love of retail and ethos of going the extra mile for customers meant that things could not stand still. Another chapter was soon to start.
The becoming of Brocante
2007
A Second shop opens
Speed was of the essence when premises became available in 2007 in the dream location of Fowey. David scribbled a sealed bid – later calmly telling Kieron they now had two shops (Kieron’s response is not recorded). They could add furniture and womenswear and as a firm southern coast feature, it was time to look north.
2018
Hello St. Ives
In May 2018, with a loyal customer base, Kieron and David were thrilled at the prospect of arriving on Cornwall’s northern coast. They opened the doors to their third shop, close to the stunning beaches and harbour of St Ives. Right on the High Street, Brocante has quickly become a stylish addition to this vibrant town.
2019
Brocante at the Bank
In July 2019 Brocante acquired its fourth shop (a second site in Fowey), occupying the old Lloyd’s bank building in the heart of the town. The grand high ceilings allow them to display some more grandiose pieces, such as an impressive art deco bar, which has taken centre stage alongside the classic items Brocante is well known for.
2021
Charming Charlestown
The opportunity to open a shop in a disused Old Chapel was a new venture for the team. What better place than the bustling harbourside village of Charlestown for their expansion? Now they are five, which means that wherever you are in Cornwall, you’re never far from a branch but with an ever expanding selection online, you can shop at Brocante almost wherever you are.
A place to find the unexpected
Brocante’s five Cornish locations have been lovingly created and designed to inspire as a haven for home interior enthusiasts and those with an appreciation for style and uniqueness. Passion for beautiful interiors is reflected in the choice of gifts, chic treats and stylish furnishings. Whether you are looking for a unique present or a new sofa, you can be sure that everything at Brocante has been hand-picked and chosen with love.
