100,000 Customers

“We only opened in June 2008, so it’s incredible that we’ve already had 100,000 customers,” said Steve Croot, owner.

“Independent retailers have such a tough time competing with the multiples, so it’s great to be able to tell a success story,” he adds.

Regular shopper, Rosemary Hare received a bottle of Champagne for marking the milestone.

The shop offers goods from over 35 local producers, catering for quirky and quality tastes.

“Our own label beer is brewed by a local man in his garage, which is very popular but we also sell 500 pounds of handmade sausages a week,” he said.

Constant interaction with customers through events and competitions helps to promote all aspects of the business.

“Last year we celebrated British Sausage Week with a recipe competition. We sold an extra 300 pounds that week!” said Mr Croot.

Continually providing a point of difference and going into detail has carved a niche in the local market.

“We pride ourselves on offering what the supermarkets can’t. Customers look out the window, see our animals grazing and are immediately reassured about the quality of the meat,” he explained.

“If we’re successful when times are tough, business can only improve,” he added.

However, the Derbyshire-based business endured mixed blessings at the outset. “One weekend we took over £1,500, but others were much quieter as the recession set in,” said Mr Croot.

Ambitious plans now include building a brewery and a cheese-making plant.

“Provenance is very important to our customers. We know that the only thing better than buying local produce is making it,” he concluded.