AN old-fashioned sweet shop which has customers as far away as Australia is beating the credit crunch by expanding during the current economic depression.

Nelson-based Happy Sweet Shop is enjoying rapid growth, and even experiencing a global demand for its products after opening last year.

The business started as a home-based company, but its early success meant that professional workspace was soon required. Many of the sales are via their website.

Boss Simon Brooke, 30, said local sweet lovers, as well as those from far away, have been flocking to the business, which is based at Lomeshaye business park.

He said now plans are in place for a huge expansion.

He said: “Our range of sweets is meant to take you back to your childhood days and we now have a range of several hundred lines, with on-line customers as far away as Australia.

“Our popularity is because just the idea of a sherbet dipper or a gobstopper brings a smile to your face. They are not especially expensive and people enjoy reliving their childhood.”

Mr Brooke, who lives in Burnley, said that the business was started just over 18 months ago at his home. Happy Sweet Shop has also opened a small sweet shop counter in the centre’s reception.

He added: “Clearly the recession has not reduced appetites for traditional confectionery such boiled sweets, sherbets and coconuts mushrooms.

“Our next phase of expansion will be providing charity and fundraising products and starting to sell our products at the counters of local stores, cinemas and retail outlets.”