Speciality Food Magazine

This year was a cracker for Croots; December takings were up 33% compared to 2008, with particularly phenomenal meat sales. We sold approximately the same number of turkeys, but lots more beef and cockerel. And, while we ran out of smoked salmon, but over-ordered on the fancy biscuits, our January 'sale cart' is looking pretty balanced and going down nicely.

We made a big effort to give our customers a really lovely festive experience, hiring a local brass band to play carols for three days in return for passer-by donations. Many shoppers said how much it added to the atmosphere, so it was well worth it.

We also sold Croots 2010 calendars, raising a total of £175 for Derbyshire children’s charity, Treats.

Battling the snow

The snow hit us hard just before Christmas so I’ve been busy gritting the sloping driveway up to Croots Farm Shop ever since. It’s been a constant battle to clear the snow and ice. With the bread van arriving at about 6am, I’ve had some very early starts to make sure that deliveries, staff and customers can get through.

January - traditionally a quiet month – means we've started to think ahead about what promotions to offer. Once again we’ll be supporting Farmhouse Breakfast Week (24th- 30th January) and highlighting our sausages, bacon, eggs, Derbyshire oatcakes and more...