Put your hard-earned cash to good use by spending in local independent shops. Every little bit helps those determined entrepreneurs rather than lining the pockets of the big boys (and girls) in charge of the massive multi-store conglomerations.
I’ve been using Dave the Butcher’s in Highlands Road (Fareham) nearly every week for over 40 years (including the previous incarnation at the long-lost Dean Farm Shop). Now run by his sons, Darren and Kevin, this family emporium of quality meat, homemade ham and sausages, fruit and vegetables, eggs and cheeses plus an eclectic selection of baked goods remains super to this day. It’s good that they know where their produce is sourced and will sell the amounts you want rather than those anonymous pre-ordained and pre-packed versions. As a well known cook and writer, their ingredients feature in every one of my recipes; www.pennymelvillebrown.com.
Personal service is the key for these independents. As a regular customer, I can ring or e-mail my weekly list and even the special treat and all miraculously appear. Delivery is no problem and, for years, Kevin even unpacked it all for me.
Its easy to argue about costs but working to a familiar list, avoiding those 2-for-1 temptations and other sinful indulgences really can make savings. Buying exactly what you want avoids kitchen waste while offering days of great grub. Its also easy to reach those 5-a-day/30-a-week plant-based food targets which make so much difference for our health.
Equally important, they were the people who kept us going throughout Covid, bring good food to our local shopping parade while those two entrepreneurs and their families thrive. It feels good to put money into the local economy rather than the hands of those unknown international giants. Shop local and everyone does better.