Mookau is an eclectic shop selling fun and unusual gifts: “It’s all about things that spark joy; when people stop by it puts a smile on their face and brightens their day”.
Established by husband and wife team Nick and Kitty in August 2007, the pair were stuck in careers they didn’t want; both looking for a lifestyle change, they were eager to work for themselves and create something new. With this ambition in place, they could see that Sheffield was lacking in stores showcasing cool and independent brands, and from this idea Mookau was formed, nestled in the hustle and bustle of Ecclesall Road.
The store opened to immediate success. By displaying many products made within the city, they managed to strike a chord with the locals, celebrating everything unique that Sheffield has to offer. “I love that since we’re small we can reflect what customers want, having the flexibility to adapt and keep selections fresh”, Kitty tells us. “As long as it’s lovely, we’ll sell it!”
By displaying many products made within the city, they managed to strike a chord with the locals, celebrating everything unique that Sheffield has to offer.
Mookau offers a diverse range of items, making sure there’s a mix of UK based, indie companies. They sell over 1000 products, including jewellery from Stella and Wolf, York-based Choc Affair chocolates, and a variety of vegan bath products. All bath and body are 90% handmade, and they also have a fantastic vegan range, priding themselves on their inclusivity. Sheffield-based products include The Colours of Sheffield, which is the bestselling range – people love to have that local connection to the city! Based in S7, Beth Pegler is also hugely popular, a handmade textile jewellery range perfect for gifting to loved ones.
2020 was a difficult year for all, and they created a lockdown scheme, writing and sending cards for those who could not see their loved ones. During this time, Kitty wrote hundreds of heartfelt messages, realising the importance of frivolity during times of isolation. There is value in Mookau’s ethos; gift giving brings people together, which has become especially relevant in lockdown. It’s important for them to give back to the community, and they have given 10% of the sales they make from face coverings to Roundabout, a youth homelessness charity, with the aim of giving a slice back to those suffering most in the face of the pandemic.
“Thank you to those that continue to support us”, says Kitty, “looking ahead we hope to keep on keeping on, continuing to bring new and exciting products to an ever-changing market”.
Read about more of Sheffield’s finest independent businesses in ‘The Little Book of Sheffield’, available to purchase online here.
