THE four finalists for The Mall Blackburn’s ‘Retail Factor’ 2014 contest have gone to the public vote.

The budding entrepreneurs are now trading in the shopping centre’s pop-up shop which was officially opened this week.

After three weeks’ trading, one of the businesses will be selected as having the commercial X factor based on results and public reaction.

The winner will be in the national final, up against five other hopefuls to win £1,000 and mentoring from business experts.

The finalists are: Irresistible Cupcakes: Fatema Fulat from Blackburn, with 20 years’ baking experience, has been running the enterprise since 2013. She produces cakes, pop cakes and printed edible decorations using organic ingredients.

Kease Keyrings: Chorley-based Sue Seddon’s business provides a unique solution to the age-old problem of lost keys. It is the only product of its kind in the UK and comes in a variety of colours and designs. Sue launched in 2013.

Tutu’s and Tulle: Amanda Logan’s love of all things girly led to her launching her business producing bespoke, made-to-order tutu outfits with matching personalised teddy bears. Set up in 2013 and based in her home in Feniscowles.

Krosl: Jack Godden, from Liverpool, met business partner Sam Houghton from Blackburn when they studied in Manchester. Together they founded Krosl, a contemporary creative clothing design company.

Judges will assess performance throughout the three weeks.

Mall general manager and head judge Loraine Jones said: “I am sure that all the finalists will get a very warm welcome from our shoppers and I look forward to announcing who our local champion is.”