A reptile enthusiast has turned his hobby into a career with the opening of a new pet store in Garston, Liverpool.
Chris Rose has welcomed customers to the unique offering of Marvel Reptiles Ltd, where 90% of the store’s set-ups are bioactive.
“What makes my store so special and stand out is the bioactive section and its customised tanks,” said Chris. “This section always gathers attention. I design and build these tanks to suit any space. whether it be commercial or private.
“Bioactive basically means the housing of a particular reptile that is fully live and sustainable, so there is very little cleaning involved. In my opinion it suits the reptiles needs much better.”
Chris, who used to work in landscaping, has been planning his new venture for over a year.
“It seems so much longer in my head,” admitted Chris. “Although I have never been involved in the pet industry before I have kept and bred chameleon for more than four years.
“I have a very special love for these amazing species and my very first reptile was a veiled chameleon. All the chameleon in store are my own.
“I have also put my landscaping experience to good use because it helped with the building and designing of the customised tanks.”
Chris is helped in store by a manager who works mornings, and by partner Lydia, who shares his love of reptiles.
Marvel Reptiles was officially opened at the end of November by impressionist Les Gibson, who made it to the final of Britain’s Got Talent.
“The grand opening was amazing, and we’ve had lots of positive feedback,” said Chris.
“For me, the most important thing is that people and customers can gain the knowledge on how to keep these beautiful reptiles in the best possible environment.
“We love our shop, we love what we do, and we want to share this passion with out customers.”
Even when the shop is closed, potential customers are drawn to a stunning mural of a chameleon, which adorns the shutters of the premises.
