Local Businesses in Sunderland to Support During Covid-19

10 Aug 2020

Sunderland has several fantastic independent businesses; from high-end boutique stores, to family-run restaurants. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has had significant impact, leaving many Sunderland companies struggling to stay afloat. Now, more than ever, it’s vital to support our great local enterprises, and ensure that they not only survive this difficult time, but thrive for years to come.

Here’s a list of just a few of Sunderland’s best independent companies that you should know about.

12 great Sunderland businesses to support

Aphrodite – Vine Place

Aphrodite have been supplying Sunderland with quality menswear for over 25 years, stocking much-loved designer brands such as Belstaff, Fred Perry, Moncler and Vivienne Westwood. They specialise in luxe-sportswear and laid-back styles, and in addition to their range of clothing, they also sell designer footwear brands like Nike, Adidas Originals and New Balance.

If you want to update your wardrobe after lockdown, Aphrodite is definitely the shop to visit. Alternatively, if you’re still shielding, you can make a purchase via their website.

Reynolds Outdoor Centre – Derwent Street

It’s difficult to imagine Sunderland’s high street without Reynolds Outdoor Centre. It’s been a presence in the city for over 150 years, and during that time, has changed from an army surplus store to the best place to get kitted out for your next outdoor adventure.

Whatever activity you’re into, from hiking and climbing, to skiing and snowboarding, you’ll find everything you need in this shop. You can check out their extensive range here.

Love Lily – Marine Walk

Love Lily is one of the best places to go if you’re in need of a sweet treat. The friendly tea-room / bakery is situated in an idyllic spot, right beside Roker Sea Front. However, make no mistake, it doesn’t just sell a tantalising array of cakes; you can also enjoy breakfast, brunch or lunch here. The traditional afternoon teas are also popular, with all the cakes being made by the Love Lily bakers.

Visit the website to get a taste for what’s on offer – you can also order specialist cakes online, which is ideal if you’ve got a birthday to celebrate.

Asisana Fusion Restaurant – West Wear Street (City Centre)

Now that we’re allowed to go to restaurants again, the big question is – which of Sunderland’s fine establishments should you visit first? A top contender has to be Asisana, which serves up delicious Asian dishes, including everything from Malay curries to fragrant Thai meals.

The bright, modern décor provides the perfect backdrop for a special evening out, or alternatively, download the Asisana app to get food delivered straight to your door. You can find out more about it here.

Holmeside Coffee – Sunderland Museum and Winter Garden, Burdon Road

Holmeside Coffee are located in Sunderland Museum, and serve up a tempting range of fine coffees, tea, food and cakes. They’re a firm favourite with museum-goers and coffee-lovers alike, and even though they’re not quite open yet, they’re still selling food via online order / local collection. Keep up to date with when their doors will be opening again via their Facebook page.

Frances Marshall – Sunniside

One thing that people have found difficult during lockdown is the hair salons being shut. Thankfully, they’re now open again, which means that it’s officially time to book an appointment and transform your shaggy locks into something fashion-forward again! Frances Marshall are one of the city’s best-loved salons, and their friendly team are well-known for their high-quality haircuts and colouring services.

To find out how to book your appointment, visit the Frances Marshall website today.

Port Independent – St Thomas Street

Port Independent is the place to visit if you love unique clothing. They’ve got four in-house brands, which are all designed and crafted in the store itself. These are INDPT, Port Basics, Harbour, and Pastels Skatewear. They also have a range of other brands on offer, not to mention a formidable array of stylish vintage-wear.

If you can’t get out to visit them in person, don’t worry! Most of their stock is also available to buy via their website.

Seaburn Home Improvements – Station Road

The COVID-19 lockdown has forced people to stay in their houses, which has inspired many to plan out some much-needed home improvements (especially in the bathroom). Whether you’re looking to invest in new bathroom lighting, or want the space completely redesigned, Seaburn Home Improvements are the people to contact.

They’re a family-run business, and have been in operation since 1978. You can see some examples of their work here.

The Urban Terrace Kitchen Deli – Pallion

If you’re fond of some freshly prepared, delicious food, then The Urban Terrace Kitchen Deli should be high on your list of places to visit. Whether you’ve got a yearning for something tasty for lunch, or fancy a cake as a treat, this deli is sure to have something to tempt you.

Their Facebook page has further details about their menu, plus when they’ll be open to the public again.

Collinson’s Sunderland – Crowtree Road

Harry Collinson first opened his watch and jewellery shop back in 1981, and over the years, his business has gone from strength to strength. In addition to selling a stunning range of quality jewellery and watches, the shop also offers extensive repair services, from replacement batteries for your favourite watch, to ring sizing and soldering.

Their website gives you a great idea of the sort of products you can expect to find in the store – get browsing today!

Latimer’s Seafood Deli and Café – Whitburn Bents Road

Good news – Latimer’s Seafood Deli and Café is serving take-away food again! That means you can grab yourself a freshly prepared fish and chips or a smoked salmon sandwich, then stroll over the road and take in the beautiful seaside scenery while you eat.

The deli is open too, so you also have the option to buy freshly caught seafood and take it home to cook. To find out more, click here.

D’Aqua – Sunniside

D’Aqua in Sunniside is one of Sunderland’s best locations for fine dining. The menu features some impressive dishes, from English, French and Italian cuisine. Additionally, when you dine at D’Aqua, you can expect an intimate, special ambiance; which makes it the perfect spot to take a loved one for a special post-lockdown meal.

You can get tempted by their mouth-watering menu here.