Whey to go – cheese firm to create new jobs after landing funding

Lincolnshire-based cheese company Chuckling Cheese has secured a £250,000 investment to build its online presence and create 12 new jobs.

The company secured the finance from First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans through the Midlands Engine Investment Fund (MEIF), supported by the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS) and Community Investment Enterprise Facility.

Despite losing all of its event turnover this year, the locally-produced artisan cheese company says it will invest in its online presence and move several shopping centre kiosks into stores. The company will also expand its product range, relocate its warehouse and create 12 new jobs, with more planned in 2021.

Owned by husband and wife team, Stuart and Emma Colclough, Chuckling Cheese’s decision to increase its online presence follows a ten-fold surge in online sales during lockdown.

Stuart Colclough said: “We’ve adapted well to the COVID-19 challenges we’ve faced and are excited to launch our new website with a ‘build your own’ hamper and subscription service thanks to the MEIF and CBILS funding boost.

“Our online sales have seen real growth this year and we now stock over 40 different cheeses, including a wide range of vegan options and a variety of flavours from our newly-launched Carnival Cheddar, with rum and pineapple, to our Hot & Spicy Cheddar for cheese lovers who like a chilli kick. We even sell tiered cheese celebration cakes for a range of celebrations and weddings.”

Emma Colclough added: “Although our sales from kiosks and stores have largely remained strong, the funding we’ve received means we can now stock a wider range of produce in-store and we now sell over 50 variants of drinks as well as baked goods and confectionery.”

Matthew Wright, investment manager at First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans, said:
“We are delighted to be able to support the Chuckling Cheese Company adapt its business model during these unprecedented times. Chuckling Cheese is a fantastic small business and Stuart’s and Emma’s passion for cheese is second to none.”

Lewis Stringer, senior manager at the British Business Bank, added: “The MEIF is committed to supporting businesses across the Midlands to innovate and grow. Chuckling Cheese is one of a number of companies supported by the fund that have adapted successfully to the challenges currently faced by businesses. We would encourage other companies in the region to consider the finance options available through the fund.”