TOWN End Farm Shop, in Airton, has been crowned 2022 Yorkshire & North East regional winner of the Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards.

On Monday, April 25 specialist retailers, suppliers and the awards judges came together at the show held at the NEC, in Birmingham, to celebrate the very best of the sector as the regional winners were announced to a packed audience.

For awards recognised specialist retailers who are doing their part to create a better world through sustainable initiatives, whilst supporting their customers, communities and suppliers.

Chris Wildman, of Town End Farm Shop, said after his business was crowned the winner: “This really took my breath away. So chuffed for the whole team and for the tremendous work everyone has put in over the last couple of years. Fantastic accolade and against some amazing businesses from Yorkshire and the North.”

The nomination and entry campaign commenced in January and February this year, where consumers and suppliers were invited to nominate worthy contenders, and specialist retailers were invited to enter. From over 100 entries, our judging panel whittled this down to 51 finalists, announced in early April, with the nine regional winners announced on April 25.

Nigel Barden, chair of judges for the awards said: “We had some fabulous entries, many reflecting how resourceful retailers have been in the food and drink sector, as they faced another very different and challenging year. Our judges had a difficult task drawing up the regional shortlists and winners for this year’s Farm Shop & Deli Awards, as there were some remarkable entries reflecting how resourceful many in the food and drink sector are, particularly with the emphasis being focused on recycling, waste and sustainability. It is heartening to see how much these talented, resourceful and diligent entrants care about their businesses and it was a privilege to read about them and celebrate them at the winners announcement.”

Others involved in the decision making were equally congratulatory. One said: “I almost had to lie down after reading that list of hugely and highly commendable aspects to this small yet super dynamic farm shop out near Malham. (Chris) certainly does have his finger on the button here and quietly, seemingly just gets on with the job in hand and I found his list of eco-credentials not just extensive but also in areas that I had certainly not thought of before which was a real standout for me.”

“I really like this entry; lots of what I want to see in an entry. Supporting other businesses, making charcuterie on site, good, innovative sustainable solutions, investment in staff, community support, local producers name-checked.”

https://www.farmshopanddelishow.co.uk/awards