Farmers aim to transform food retail sector with Happerley England

The way food businesses operate has changed dramatically since the onset of coronavirus, but now a new movement could blaze a trail for the future of retail.

UK farmers are taking over the former BHS store in Banbury from Saturday 29th August. The site will become home to a new butchers, fishmongers, deli, farm shop, bakery, cheese counter, off-licence, take-aways, a restaurant and a large bar.

Called Happerley England, it’s set to become England’s first national centre of food and drink provenance in an interactive mixed retail, street food and entertainment setting.

Supported by BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson, the project is set to create around 60 full- and part-time jobs, whilst championing British produce and transforming the food industry.

Happerley England aims to offer greater transparency to consumers, empowering consumers to make more informed and conscious choices.

Shoppers can use QR technology on a smartphone to view the ingredient supply chain of products. All produce sold at Happerley England will be Happerley Gold certified – or on a journey to become Happerley Gold – meaning consumers can trace the journey of their food and drink right back to the farms and boats, while learning more about the story behind that journey.

“We hope to blaze a new future for retail by re-engaging town centres with their hinterland and delivering truth instead of spin,” Happerley founder, Matthew Rymer, explained. “It is not rocket science – this is about delivering transparency and truth for the benefit of all. It’s about telling the story of field-to-fork, creating community space, a platform for genuine interaction, and a sustainable business model for all.

“We want to lay a path for hope through these difficult times and to focus on the glory of what we as a nation produce. We very much hope to set up a Happerley Scotland and Happerley Wales in due course.”