15 December 2009, 14:43 PM
  • Rumwell Farm Shop, Taunton is the first shop in the UK to receive The Genuine Own And Local (GOAL) certificate from the Farmers’ Retail & Markets Association (FARMA)

The accreditation is awarded to shops selling their own farm produce, and was introduced to help consumers identify ‘real’ farm shops.

“Shoppers want to support local farmers and food producers because they want to reduce food miles and buy better food,” said Rita Exner, FARMA secretary.

“Hopefully the scheme will make it easier for them to find outlets that meet these objectives, and to shop with confidence where they see the GOAL sign,” she added.

“The image of the farm shop has become so widespread. There are a growing number of retailers claiming to grow their own food, when it’s actually produce that they’ve been buying in,” said Anne Mitchell, owner of Rumwell Farm Shop.

Rumwell went through vigorous inspections and mystery shopper visits before being awarded the GOAL certificate.

“We were recognised because it’s clear that we rear the beef and pork we sell, grow our own vegetables and make our own preserves,” said Mrs Mitchell.

“The shop will be monitored and assessed again in a year to make sure the standards are maintained,” she added.

FARMA is encouraging other retailers to apply for the certificate in the new year.

Visit www.farma.org.uk to find out more.