A VINTAGE market in Salisbury, which is nearly celebrating its one-year anniversary, has received a special business boost from retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis.

Last week Jules and Chrissie Aplin, owners of The Phoenix Emporium in Tollgate Road, tweeted Mr Paphitis about their business during ‘Small Business Sunday’ (SBS) and were one of six weekly winners to gain a retweet to his 500,000 Twitter followers.

Following the exposure from Mr Paphitis, who is chairman of Ryman Stationery, Robert Dyas and Boux Avenue, The Phoenix Emporium secured nearly 150 more followers on Twitter.

After receiving the SBS recognition Mrs Aplin said: “Next month will see the first year anniversary of The Phoenix Emporium opening, and it’s certainly been an eventful first year with the closure of non-essential retail for three months and all of the challenges of the pandemic.

"It is great to have support from Theo because it’s been tough trying to raise our profile on Twitter and Theo has recognised our hard work and helped spread the word about what we do to his following.”

As well as a retweet, businesses selected are also invited to enter their profiles on a new website, attend the annual #SBS networking event and take advantage of further networking opportunities.

Mr Paphitis said those who win a #SBS retweet become "part of a friendly club - like-minded individuals who can share successes and learnings".

He added: “We are thrilled to welcome new #SBS members every week and highlight just how important it is to support our small businesses here in the UK.

"The website will also give a valuable profile to the winners chosen and I wish The Phoenix Emporium every success.”

Anyone looking for a retweet should tweet Mr Paphitis on Sundays between 5pm and 7.30pm, including the hashtag #SBS.