Set in 1890s Newcastle, country girl Denise adapts to survive in her new job at `The Paradise', a glamorous department store in a booming Victorian city, and catches the eye of Moray, the store's charismatic owner. Moray has big ambitions to expand the business, but at what cost?

When Sam comes to the rescue of a customer, a misunderstanding threatens his career and The Paradise's reputation. Meanwhile, excitement spreads when a new promotion is announced, leaving Miss Audrey flustered and Denise an opportunity to shine in Moray's eyes.

A shocking discovery in ladieswear causes ripples through the store; To test Moray's feelings, Katherine pursues another man; Miss Audrey bans Denise from having any more ideas, forcing Denise to use all her cunning.

Miss Audrey develops a mysterious illness, which provokes a rivalry between Denise and Clara. Meanwhile, Katherine enjoys the effect Peter is having on her life, but is it enough to banish all thoughts of Moray?

Moray's neighbour fulfils his ambition to work at The Paradise, leading to all kinds of trouble within the store, Denise's new brainwave ruffles some feathers, and Katherine goes to extreme lengths to win Moray's attention.

When exotic lovebirds arrive as the new attraction to be sold at the Paradise, an overexcited Pauline offers to man the counter in an attempt to impress Sam. With Dudley's words ringing in his ears, Moray commits to a life-changing decision but regrets his action almost immediately, and Jonas resorts to blackmail to ensure his secret dealings remain hidden.