Farm shop reaps rewards of relocation

A WARWICKSHIRE farm shop is experiencing growth after moving to larger premises.

Farmers Fayre, which sells local produce as well as catering for events, has seen a 40% rise in sales since moving to Stoneleigh Park in November.

At 6,000 sq ft, the new shop is more than three times the size of its previous premises, which were also within the estate.

The new premises house a 70-seater restaurant, 2,000 sq ft of retail space and three meeting and function rooms. Food preparation, production and storage facilities have also been brought under the same roof.

The business now serves a range of dishes at its restaurant, with locally-sourced produce forming the basis of its seasonal menus.

The Sunday lunch menu has quickly established itself and the business estimates it has served up 2,800 Sunday carveries since its opening in last autumn.

Hot drinks have also been popular, with customers purchasing more than 25,000 cups of barista coffee.

The business is also supporting the growth of other small local businesses by stocking their products in the shop.

Nicola Reece, director of Farmers Fayre, said: “We’re absolutely delighted with how the business has progressed since moving into our new premises, it has exceeded all of our expectations.

“We now have much more of a presence at Stoneleigh Park and as a result have seen a 40% rise in sales.

“We have also had a lot of interest in our carvery which has been fully booked every Sunday. We have no stereotypical customer which we take into consideration when creating our seasonal menus so that there is something for everyone.”

The business has also become the preferred caterer at Kenilworth Castle, while its weddings, events and corporate functions service is also performing strongly.

“There has also been an increase in the amount of people supplying us with products which is excellent as not only are we giving small businesses the chance to showcase their products, it also keeps the shop fresh and exciting,” she added.

Farmers Fayre now also has farm shop concessions and restaurants within the Leekes stores in Coventry and Melksham.

Looking ahead to the future, Ms Reece said: “Stoneleigh Park offers a flexible environment and we may look to expand further in the future.

“We are also keen to grow the outdoor catering side of the business which is something we are currently focusing on.”

Colin Hooper, estates director at Stoneleigh Park, said: “It is wonderful to see a business grow within Stoneleigh Park. Farmers Fayre is popular with both those who work on the site as well as local residents and those attending our events.

“We look forward continuing to work with Farmers Fayre and supporting them with any future growth plans.”