Farmers Fayre, which specialises in local produce through its farm and coffee shop and event catering, has outgrown its existing premises on the estate and work has now started on a 300 per cent bigger replacement.
A major refurbishment of a redundant two-storey building on the site is underway that will increase the size of its premises from 1,500 sq ft to 6,000 sq ft, enabling expansion as well as food preparation, production and storage facilities to be brought under the same roof.
The new-look Farmers Fayre, due to open in September, will house retail space, which at 2,000 sq ft is bigger than the whole of its current premises, and a restaurant, with an increase in seating capacity from 20 to 50, on the ground floor.
Seating for a further 100 people will be available in a newly-created veranda and garden area, while the first floor will
feature three large meeting and function rooms for hire, along with offices.
It is the biggest refurbishment project yet undertaken by LaSalle Investment Management, as part of its on-going transformation of Stoneleigh Park into a centre of agricultural excellence.
Farmers Fayre was founded by husband and wife team Nicola and Michael Reece, who work closely with local farmers, small producers and suppliers to source high-quality produce within the region.
Nicola said: “This is a major expansion for us, given that we started out at Stoneleigh Park in a log cabin eight years ago. The business has grown to such an extent that we are at full capacity so it is much needed.
“Typically we serve between 1,500 and 2,000 customers a week, and a show day can bring over 1,000 people through our doors. On top of that, we have our event catering and are already at capacity for weddings this year.
“The new premises will provide bigger and better facilities, whilst still retaining the traditional charm of our existing premises with features including a big AGA and log burner. It will enable us to really showcase what we do with local
produce.”
Colin Hooper, estates director at Stoneleigh Park, said: “Creating a new home for Farmers Fayre is the biggest refurbishment project that LaSalle has so far undertaken at Stoneleigh Park and represents our commitment to supporting the development of businesses here.
“Farmers Fayre is a real success story, having grown from being a small enterprise to a thriving business. It is a great
asset and well-supported by the 1,150 people working here.
“Outside of Stoneleigh Park, its presence here is somewhat a hidden gem. The new building will allow it to expand the core elements of its business and champion local produce to a wider audience.”
