Vegelicious Case Study: Bryn Community Shop

Bryn Community Shop, at Ashton-in-Makerfield, is a real family affair and was buzzing when we visited recently. A constant stream of customers were being served by Courtney and her sister Becky, while husband Stephen was out collecting food supplies. As our visit was during the school holidays, their three children were also on hand to help (although the baby preferred a snooze in the back).

Helping people is important

The shop operates five days a week and is open to anyone in the local community. Courtney and Becky have loved meeting people and making new friends. Alongside the shop they run children’s holiday activities, provide a Christmas meal and run a Friday night kids club.

Stephen is a local councillor and finds being in the shop means he is clearly visible and easily available to his community. Helping people is really important to them all and they are trying their best to ease the financial burdens that the community is facing.

“Always fresh and definitely good value!”

Bryn Community Shop has recently joined the Vegelicious scheme and Courtney says the customers are amazed by the offer. They are able to select a bag of mixed fruit and veg for just £1 and the produce is drawing people into the shop. They have had great feedback from their customers with one commenting “it’s very good quality, always fresh and definitely good value!”

Stephen says “FareShare is our main supplier and we wouldn’t be open without them. Because of them I don’t go to bed worrying about being able to afford the food supply.”

Interested in joining Vegelicious?

If you’re from a charity or community group supporting those experiencing food insecurity and would like to know more, please get in touch with Sharon, our Vegelicious Coordinator by emailing sharon.robinson@emergemanchester.co.uk