Basil and Pip florist closes in the Royal Arcade in Norwich

Gemma Murray launched Basil and Pip from her kitchen in 2018, creating bouquets and gift baskets for friends and family.

After growing the business over the Covid lockdowns, Gemma opened her bricks-and-mortar studio in the Royal Arcade offering handcrafted arrangements to the people of Norwich.

Basil and Pip has closed after nearly two years (Image: Newsquest) But after seeing a boom in event work which has seen her frequently called away from the shop, she has taken the decision to close. 

Gemma Murray, originally from Scotland, said: "I really enjoyed my time in the Royal Arcade but the business has gone in a different direction.

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"With much more of a focus on weddings and events now it makes sense for me to move premises to a more appropriate location.

Gemma opened the shop in January last year (Image: Denise Bradley)

"I wouldn't have been able to have built my profile and attracted the number of new customers I have, had it not been for my presence in the centre of Norwich. I have made many friends among the Royal Arcade storeowner community.

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"It's with a heavy heart that I am leaving but I am also very excited about the next chapter for Basil and Pip."

A new tenant may soon be taking over the space (Image: Newsquest) Simon Ashdown, the director of the company that manages the Royal Arcade, said: "While we are sad to see Gemma go, it's also great to know that we have played a pivotal role in growing her business to a point where she can now specialise on a particular sector of the market that doesn't require a retail presence.

"We wish Gemma the best of luck and we are progressing well with a replacement tenant for the unit.

"As soon as we have confirmation we will announce what the new store will be."