A Nisa store in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, has become a tourist hotspot thanks to BBC series Happy Valley.
The Nisa Local store, which is owned by Amacor following its acquisition in May 2021, plays a prominent role in the series as the workplace of the characters.
Filming began at the store in Hebden Bridge ten years ago and the final episode was aired on BBC One on Sunday, 5 February 2023. However the show’s popularity has led to tourists flocking to the store.
Manager Martin Turner has worked for the store for over 15 years.
“The previous owner of the store was approached about a new series which would be shown on the BBC, and he allowed them to film in the store about ten years ago,” he said. “For continuity reasons the production company kept in touch and used the store in each series. They approached us and asked if they could film and we were happy to be part of the Happy Valley journey.”
Martin explains how the TV show has affected the area. “There’s been a big impact on the local area and we’ve seen a lot of tourists visiting the area – particularly over the last couple of weeks. We have had so many fans of the show turn up just to have a look around and take photographs both inside and outside the store.
“It does make me laugh when I see so many people stood outside the store waiting for the opportunity to take a photograph – 10 years ago I’d have wondered what was going on, but I don’t mind it. I’m happy to play our part. The feel of the store is the same as I’ve known it since I started working here, but I understand a lot of people feel connected with the store now after watching the series.”
Scott Sandford, Amacor’s head of retail, added: “It’s a great local, community store which we are proud to have in our estate. We have plans to invest in the store and provide an even better shopping experience for our customers.”
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