Awards 2009 Home

NEWS RELEASE: GOLDY'S FARM SHOP SCOOPS NATIONAL FARM SHOP AWARD

Jenny Goldsack (Goldy's), John Timpson

Goldy's Farm Shop in Lytchett Matravers, Dorset, has won the title of 'Own and Local' farm retailer of the year from the National Farmers' Retail & Markets Association (FARMA). The judge's decision was announced on 11 November 2008 at the prestigious FARMA national conference in Newcastle.

The Own and Local Award celebrates what makes farm shops unique, individually and as a retail concept; it can properly be described as 'the farm retailers' farm retail Award'. Own & Local Award winners must fulfil the criteria of producing themselves half of the foods for sale in their farm shop, and then nurturing a local supply chain from other farmers and artisan producers to about the same extent.

Goldy's farm shop only opened in 2007, but is blazing a trail in farm retail. The business was awarded the FARMA environmental award last year for its innovative approach to sustainable retail; an ethic that has own and locally sourced food, and community investment at its heart. The farm shop sells its own organic vegetables, own eggs and beef (including rosé veal), traditionally made, additive-free breads made using homegrown organic wheat and rye from a sourdough starter. A selection of cakes, pies and ready meals are also made onsite, using only local organic ingredients with no added nasties. The butchers produce their own hams, bacons and sausages, including a gluten-free option.

Goldy's farm shop is keen to support and encourage the local community; working with schools, colleges and the university to educate customers and students, and to offer an outlet for any produce they grow themselves. Locally sourced, artisan produce can be found on the wooden shelves in the farm shop and in the unique black-clad condensing refrigeration area.

The staff at Goldy's are delighted to receive the award. Farm shop manager, Jenny Goldsack, commented, "We are so thrilled to win a FARMA award for the second year running. We feel that this achievement strongly reflects our core values, and we are proud that customers will see us in this light.'

Nigel Chandler, farm shop manager at Garson's farm in Esher was one of this year's judges. 'Goldy's farm shop is a haven for those looking for fresh and local produce, from delicious meats served by expert butchers, fresh crafted bakery, and a whole range of local Dorset produce, served by a team of well turned out professional staff.'

The FARMA awards are the only awards to be peer-assessed by other farm retailers, including previous award winners. An independent mystery shopper report is also available to the judges. The Awards therefore take account of the customer experience while focusing strongly on the farming, management and retail skills demonstrated in the business.

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For more information:
Goldy's Farm Shop, Lytchett Matravers, BH16 6ER
Contact: Jenny Goldsack Tel: 01202 625777

FARMA, Rita Exner or Gareth Jones: 0845 45 88 420 www.farma.org.uk

Notes to Editors:
The National Farmers' Retail & Markets Association (FARMA) is a 700-strong farmer-owned co-operative that represents and supports direct sales to the consumer in all its forms: farm shops, pick-your-own farms, farmers' markets, box schemes and internet sales. It sets standards for farmers' markets with an independent inspection and Certification mark to ensure that they are genuine farmers' markets; and works to improve retailing and marketing skills throughout the industry. The FARMA Awards have been running since 2002.