Three Cumbrian firms have been named among the best food and drink producers in the UK.
Bells Fishmongers in Carlisle and Kendal’s Lovingly Artisan and Roast Mutton were handed the accolades in the Farm Shop & Deli Retailers Awards 2024.
Following a rigorous judging process by a team of experts, the three Cumbrian companies were named the best in their field.
Bells won fishmonger of the year, Roast Mutton was named retail butcher of the year and Lovingly Artisan won the baker category, the regional category and took home the overall retailer of the year prize.
Bells said their success was down to their hardworking staff, loyal customers, who they thanked and its produce, sourced by brave fishermen and women.
Robert Unwin, of Roast Mutton, said: “To my total amazement he announced that we’d won – it hasn’t actually sunk in yet to be honest. But this award means loads because it’s about the teams at Roast Mutton in Kendal and our new shop in Lancashire.
“The reality is we couldn’t do what we would do without them, and we want to say a huge thank you to all of them for their hard work. And while I’m at it I’d like to say a massive thanks to our brilliant customers who’ve supported us over the last couple of years and all of the farmers across both counties that we work with.”
Judges praised Lovingly Artisan highly.
They said: “Innovative business methods, knowledgeable and passionate staff, fantastic turnover. Strong brand identity on website, fabulous subscription boxes online and high following on Instagram. Love the bread truck concept. Great entry!” and “This excellent bakery has innovation with its new wood chip oven which has increased turnover, and, because of this, they have a good carbon footprint. I like their bread van. Mobile shop idea going to farmers markets. Lovely to see crusty loaves of bread on display in their shop.”
Catherine Connor, of Lovingly Artisan Bakery, said: “We’re all totally blown away! We didn’t expect to win any awards, but to come away with three demonstrates just how exceptional every member of our team is.
“The annual Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards are one of the biggest in the food and drink industry and to come away with the overall title is absolutely amazing.
“For us the customer journey is extremely important, you can have the best products in the world but if you don’t get the whole customer experience right from the start people will simply vote with their feet.
“Which is why every single member of the team works hard each and every day to ensure that all of our customers get the best possible experience when they shop with us, so that they can really enjoy the whole experience of buying healthy nourishing artisan sourdough bread for their family table.”
