Are you a butcher, baker or muesli maker? Gloucester Services search for the best in the Southwest.

Next year a brand new motorway services will be opening just outside Gloucester on the M5 - and the buyers are searching for the Southwest’s best food producers to supply its farm shops and kitchens.

This is the sister project of the famed Tebay Services based in Cumbria on the M6, the UK’s only family owned and run motorway service area.

Fresh local and artisan produced food is at the heart of Tebay Services and Gloucester will share Tebay’s approach; no franchises, but farm shops and kitchens selling and making proper food.

The business approach is different to other British motorway service areas, who aim to suit all tastes through national franchises like Costa, Burger King and WH Smiths.

The buyers from Gloucester Services are holding a series of Meet the Buyer events across the region to find the best possible produce made in the Southwest. Joining them in their quest for the best of the Gloucestershire region is food writer and broadcaster, Matthew Fort.

The launch of the hunt takes place on November 5 at The Mill in Stroud where a light lunch and networking will commence at 11.00am. Sarah Dunning will outline her vision for food at Gloucester Services supported by a short talk from Matthew Fort about the importance of local food.

Head of Retail, Stuart Clear, says “We don’t just believe in great quality local products, we want to form

long term relationships with people who really care about what they produce. We want to meet as many

farmers and growers as possible in the region who share our ethos and passion for proper food.”

“We also want Gloucester Services to act as a springboard for new businesses. Maybe you’re a brilliant

home baker and want to start up a business, a farmer who would like sell his stock direct rather than

via a wholesaler. We’re looking for delicious food and a commitment to locally-sourced ingredients coupled

with excellent hygiene standards in production.”

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Meet the Buyer Events in November for the new Gloucester Services

(opening in June 2014):

• November 5, 11.00AM

The Mill, Brimscombe Port, Brimscombe, Stroud, GL5 2QG