DESPITE rising energy prices amid the cost-of-living crisis, Andover has welcomed a range of new shops over the past year.

Here we look back at some of the beloved shops that came to Andover in 2022.

Magic Bread Bakery

This bakery opened its doors on January 12, and was inspired by the success that owners Ana Rosep and Nik Policarp had with their Romanian supermarket, Magazin Alimentar, which they launched in December 2020.

Ana said: “It was an obvious place to open a bakery. Not only does Andover town centre not have a fresh bakery serving pastries, savouries and other delicious food, but we are in an attractive and busy walkway just off the high street and close to the car park.”

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E-Bike Centre

E-Bike Centre opened a new store in Andover on January 31.

Located on Salisbury Road, the shop features a showroom for electric pedal assist cycles, parts, accessories and a servicing department.

Boba World

Boba World opened its doors in the Chantry Centre on July 6, bringing a range of bubble tea to Andover.

Bubble tea is originally a Taiwanese recipe made by blending tea with milk, fruit and fruit juices, then adding tapioca pearls and shaking, often over ice.

The shop is the first of its kind in Andover, with owner Mohsin Zia saying: “Some people don’t know what it is, but they come in and we tell them. They try it and they all come back!”

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Roosters Andover

This halal fried chicken shop opened near Andover station on July 25.

Offering KFC-style chicken products, shop manager Raj Humnabad said that Roosters offers “flavours you cannot get anywhere else in this town".

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Afterlife Boutique

This horror-themed boutique shop was opened by Stuart and Amy Baldwin following a holiday to America.

Opening on August 22, Afterlife Boutique sells a range of horror movie-themed crafts, gifts, merchandise and collectors’ items, including bath bombs, jewellery and clothing.

Stuart said: “It’s not massive, but it’s called a boutique because pretty much every week the stock is going to be completely different depending on what has come in.”

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Yana Vintage Clothing

Yana Vintage Clothing opened in the Chantry Centre on October 1, selling a range of American and vintage clothing.

Speaking ahead of its opening, owner Richard Yandell said: “I am really proud to be opening up the new shop in the centre. I want to say a big thank you to everyone who has supported me on this journey to the point I can say I have my own shop."

Read more here.