Rural Award Boosts Sales At Farm Shop

The store fought off competition from some of the region’s most successful businesses, including a number of other food companies. Judges praised the store’s extensive selection of lamb, pork and beef – raised and butchered on the farm – as well as its contribution to the local community.

“Winning the award felt really wonderful, especially considering we were competing with all kinds of businesses, not just food retailers. The work we do with local schools and charities is so important to us, it feels great to be recognised,” said Mark Maxwell, shop manager.

Newby Hall works closely with local charity Jennyruth Workshops, helping adults with downs syndrome and learning difficulties to acquire practical skills. The shop frequently raises money for the charity and provides work experience in-store for people with special needs.

The business has already noticed a rise in sales since winning the accolade. “We took an advert out in a local newspaper on the back of the award. It included a ten percent off voucher and loads of people, including lots of new faces, have been using them,” commented Mr Maxwell.

Future plans include opening a tea room over the coming year, which will serve fresh food from the farm shop. “We’ve already applied for planning permission, so it’s just a case of waiting for it to go through. Getting people to taste your produce is half the battle, so hopefully opening a café will get customers even more excited about the food we sell,” he adds.

The Ackrill Media Group Business Awards were held at the Harrogate International Centre.