Leckford Estate pledges its support for local producers

Leckford Estate pledges its support for local producers

Hampshire Fare is pleased to announce that the Leckford Estate in Stockbridge has come on board as a corporate friend.

The two organisations have worked closely together this year to source local food and drink for the estate's new farm shop which opened in August. The Leckford Farm Shop boasts more than 1,000 products many of which from in and around Hampshire including items made by Hampshire Fare members.

Jennifer Williams, who owns Naked Jam, is one of the producers supplying the farm shop and is very positive about what it has done for her business: 'I am so grateful for the opportunity to supply the new farm shop. I'm delighted with how well my products have gone down with customers with sales far exceeding my expectations. But in honesty it has been about more than just sales, it has been an invaluable learning experience. I now realise we are not just small producers, we are tiny producers. Getting prepared to supply the farm shop and meet the regulations of a larger retailer has been a brilliant stepping stone for growing our businesses and becoming small producers. It has been an eye-opening experience.'

The Leckford Farm Shop is located on the Leckford Estate which is owned by Waitrose. The new shop aims to boost the local and regional food economy through its support of local suppliers whilst also showcasing products made on the estate.

Becoming a corporate friend of Hampshire Fare will enable the Leckford Estate to pledge its support to local producers through the hard work of the county food group. Andrew Lazenby, Commercial Manager of the Leckford Estate is excited about the future: 'We are delighted to have the opportunity to support the work of Hampshire Fare. The county is fortunate to have such a proactive and effective food group working to promote the interests of local producers. We want to show our on going commitment to local producers though our farm shop and our work with Hampshire Fare.'

Mike Wright, Chairman of Hampshire Fare, said: 'We are delighted to welcome the Leckford Estate as a Corporate Friend of Hampshire Fare. Our work is only possible thanks to the valued support of our Corporate Partners and Friends including the Leckford Estate. I have had the pleasure of visiting the new Leckford Farm Shop and seeing many local products on the shelves. I know that with our shared values it will be a beneficial partnership for all involved.'

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