How Noughts & Crosses Elevated Their Brand with Print

Noughts & Crosses Café Stamford + Tradeprint

In the heart of Stamford, Lincolnshire, a small but vibrant shop is redefining what a children’s retail experience can be. Noughts & Crosses, an independent children’s concept store and craft café, blends creativity, play, and thoughtful design into one joyful space for families.

Since opening its doors in August 2024, the business has grown into a destination where parents can spend quality time with their kids. The business has evolved in a genuinely thoughtful way. Once a shop bursting with lovely gifts, it became a creative space that works for the whole community.

A Space Designed for Creativity

From the beginning, Noughts & Crosses set about to create a space that gives children the freedom to explore and create without judgment.

The shop offers a carefully curated selection of “old-school” toys, creative play kits, clothing, and gifts. Every product is chosen with intention, encouraging imagination over screen time. Popular items include Tonies, eco-friendly toys, and playful pick-and-mix bath beads.

In early 2026, the brand expanded its offerings by adding a craft café and workshop space. This brought a whole new dimension to the business.

The Challenge: Standing Out on the High Street

In a bustling town like Stamford, first impressions count. From the moment a customer walks past the shop to the moment they leave with a purchase, every touchpoint contributes to the brand experience.

Noughts & Crosses needed print that reflected their creativity, colour, and quality, while helping them stand out from neighbouring businesses.

Their Solution Is Branded Print That Brings the Space to Life

By investing in professionally printed materials, the business elevated its in-store presence and created a cohesive, memorable brand. Theirs is playful, creative, and thoughtfully nostalgic, which in turn has led to a joy-filled, hands-on haven where imagination leads, and screens take a back seat

Every detail plays a role.

Branded bags
Placemats created from notepads to make them a little more durable
Business Cards

Each item offers both functionality and a brand experience. A well-designed menu invites creativity. A branded cup becomes a takeaway reminder. A striking sign draws people in from the street. Every detail matters, and owner Laura has taken the care needed to bring it all to life.

The Results Create A Stronger, More Recognisable Brand

The impact has been immediate and noticeable. Owner Laura Steele shares:

“We have been so happy with the print and service from Tradeprint.
Our printed items from Tradeprint have really elevated our brand presence in a busy town. The items are always high quality, and we are always getting compliments from our customers.”

Print has helped transform Noughts & Crosses from a lovely shop into a visually distinctive brand within the community that customers remember and talk about.

Why Print Still Matters for Hospitality & Retail

Digital noise is increasingly disruptive; screen time and constant notifications interrupt daily lives. A space where you can stop, create and take a break from that is a little oasis of creativity.

For venues like cafés, workshops, and independent shops, print informs and shapes how a space feels. It builds trust and reinforces brand identity in a tangible way.

Laura’s approach proves that whether you’re running a craft café, a boutique store, or any busy hospitality venue, the right print can:

Increase visibility
Enhance customer experience
Strengthen brand consistency
Leave a lasting impression

Elevate Your Venue Brand

Every venue deserves to look the part, and size does not matter. Our easy online design tools, free delivery, and low pricing help anyone create a high-quality brand in print.

If you’re ready to bring your space to life, explore our hospitality range here:
https://www.tradeprint.co.uk/hospitality

Most popular among the range are the following: