DEERSBROOK FARM: FUNDING TO DEVELOP AN AWARD-WINNING FOOD AND DRINK BUSINESS
Deersbrook Farm has created an award-winning onsite butchery, farm shop and developed a local supply chain, thanks to major funding secured by ARC Chair and grant specialist, Emma Powlett.
THE OPPORTUNITY:
The owners of a small family run farm located in the heart of Essex were inspired to develop their business. Their vision was to sell home reared beef from the farm directly to local customers, whose demand for quality meat was high.
However, funding was needed to grow their pasture-reared beef herd, create a butchery and a farm shop. This would ensure that the meat was of the highest quality when bought by consumers and the farm shop would create further opportunities to sell local produce.
THE SOLUTION:
Emma identified the opportunity to apply for LEADER grant funding. This is a European Union initiative which supports local rural development projects which revitalise rural areas and create jobs.
She drafted a compelling application which clearly demonstrated the ways in which the development of the farm business would help invigorate the economy by selling food and drink created by local producers.
THE OUTCOME
- The funding was secured
- The butchery and farm shop are now an award-winning business
- Delicious products sold range from local ice-cream, to wine
- The project has improved productivity and profitability
- Food miles have been reduced and supply chains shortened
- Jobs have been created
- Local producers have been supported
The farm shop has remained open operating according to Government guidelines and has developed an online mail order service delivering across the UK
Emma’s advice and support has helped to create a thriving enterprise which has had a major, positive impact on the local economy.
If your organisation would like to benefit from ARC’s funding solutions, finance options and rural business development solution-based advice:
Email: growth@angliaruralconsultants.com or Phone: 07831 208 963
