Leeds couple with viral Sugar Rush Sweeties business to open Merrion Centre shop after orders double during lockdown

Harry Lynch and Tayla Harris, both 22 and who work in banking and teaching, set up the business in October 2019 to try and fund travelling around the world - as reported in the YEP.The Garforth couple started Sugar Rush Sweeties in October 2019 and it grew to offer local deliveries within a six miles radius and next-day postal service.

However, the coronavirus pandemic struck and the globe-trotting plans of the pair were cancelled.

Despite the setback, incredibly their money-making scheme has ended up becoming the biggest counter and online seller of sweets in Yorkshire - with orders almost doubling during lockdown.

The couple have now announced they will open their first city centre store in the Merrion Centre this June, selling more than 150 varieties of sweets.

Tayla Harris said: “We are excited to open our first city centre venue in the heart of Leeds Arena Quarter, which we feel offers the exact vibe for our brand.

"With the increasing number of new student accommodation within the immediate vicinity and the first direct Arena directly opposite, we see this as the perfect location for our latest, contemporary sweet shop and we can’t wait to introduce new customers to Sugar Rush.”

The store, which will create up to eight new jobs for the city, will retail an array of traditional and more modern confectionery including Pick N Mix, chocolate, imported candy and beverages.

Charles Newman, Associate Director, Estates at Town Centre Securities PLC, owners of the Merrion Centre said: “We look forward to welcoming Sugar Rush Sweeties to the Merrion Centre. It’s particularly rewarding to see a young, independent business enjoy rapid success and for us to be part of their growth journey.

"The new store is sure to prove popular with customers of all ages and we are confident that there will be an influx in people eager to have their first, in person, Sugar Rush experience.”