Set has been one of our favourite Leicester gift shops for years now. With Valentine’s Day around the corner and Mother’s Day on the horizon there’s always a fantastic range of cards and gifts in store.

As a Leicester independent amongst the bigger chains in Highcross, we caught up with them for this week’s BID Spotlight to find out what’s in store this year.

What are some of the exciting new product ranges you have in store?

Our favourite new range is Kenji inspired in Japan and comes all the way from Manchester! Its gone down a storm, plush, note books, water bottles, pin badges and more. Cute and adorable…

o you have any favourite cards and gift ideas ahead of Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day?

We are famous for our cards, but remember its not all rude and cheeky, we do brilliant design and loving inclusive sentiments, not everybody has a valentine and just might need an arm around their shoulder on the 14th.

What do you think sets you apart from other gift shops in Leicester?

We have been doing this for 25 years now and still try and represent our individual taste and style. Having a great young team with me, listing to advice and keeping your ear to the ground is the best recipe.

We’re big fans of the greeting card selection at Set – which are your faves?

Noi, Eleanor Bowmer and Nottingham’s finest Artfile.

How do you find it being an independent amongst some of the bigger chains in Highcross?

It’s a curious thing that lots of customers don’t realise we are a locally owned independent company, which I always take to be a compliment. Mixing it with the big boys in the Highcross is a challenge but was the best thing we ever did.

Tell us about how Set first started?

Back in the old days of the mid 1990s I was working for the City council and having to sit my entrepreneurial hands! But after years of markets and antique fairs I real craved doing something more permanent. We started up the top end of the High Street, then 10 years in St Martins and now 8 years and counting at the Highcross entrance. Yes I really am that old.

How would you describe Set in 3 words?

Simply the best… no really try, Fun, Inspiring, Different.

Where can people keep up to date with what you have going on?

The best way is to follow us on @setleicester on Instagram.

Our BID Spotlight features are brought to you in collaboration with BID Leicester.