Suffolk farm shop named best in the UK
7th March 2024
Alder Carr Farm Shop, in Creeting St Mary near Needham Market, has been named the best small farm shop of the year at the prestigious Farm Retail Association awards.
The FRA awards ceremony that has been held for 45 years aims to celebrate the best farm shops, farm cafés and restaurants, farmers’ markets and trade suppliers in the country.
Alder Carr Farm Shop was praised for its local, seasonal and artisan produce available directly from the farm shop.
On the site, customers will also find a butchery, café, craft stores and garden centre. They can also try award-winning Alder Tree ice cream.
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Family farm shop
The Suffolk business is a family-run company that was originally set up in 1981 by Nick and Joan Hardingham. Currently the business is run by their eldest daughter Stephany and her partner Toby.
The owners posted on the shop’s social media:
Time to shine
Chair of the Farm Retail Association, Emma Mosey, said that farm shops and farmers markets continue to be the nation’s retail beacons for sourcing fresh and nutritious produce with low food miles from passionate and knowledgeable, often family-run, independent businesses.
She added: “It is right that we celebrate the crucial role that these invaluable food and drink retailers play at the heart of the communities they serve.
“Running throughout our finalists are inspiring stories of innovation, consistent quality produce and customer service excellence: terrific achievements and qualities that have been demonstrated during a challenging period for retailers amid the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
“Congratulations to everyone who is shortlisted and good luck. This is your time to shine.”
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