The Final of the Mercury Business Awards 2006 is fast approaching and this week we are taking a look at the finalists in the Best New Start-Up category, sponsored by Hegarty and Co Solicitors. The Category judge has narrowed the field to three:
- Focus Project Management of Market Deeping
- The Fine Food Store of Stamford
- Jigsaw Conferences, also of Stamford.
The Fine Food Store
Jenny Fitzpatrick opened The Fine Food Store in Stamford at the age of 22 and the business has already gone from strength to strength. Jenny, who studied business at Loughborough University and is now 24, says she was inspired to open the store after spotting a need for a coffee shop serving top quality food and drink. She was also fascinated by the world of business.
Since opening in 2004, The Fine Food Store, in St.Mary's Street, has grown into a business with a 50 per cent gross profit margin, employing eight people and with bright prospects ahead. Jenny, who Is the managing director, say it updates the traditional delicatessen concept with a dynamic, fresh business model that can be replicated across the UK. Her aim is to open branches in neighbouring market towns.
Staff are knowledgeable about the speciality food and drinks served in the coffee shop and Jenny says the links with suppliers are extremely strong. She said: "We have exceeded expectations and my learning curve has gone through the roof. We have found our feet and I think a business needs to stabilise before it can expand."
"I grew up in Stamford and really love the town and since having the shop lots of people have come to know me... Everyone has been really supportive of me and the business. I think the key to success is by planning."
She added: "We serve speciality fine foods of the best quality and the majority are sourced within the UK. We are now looking to focus on foods within the East Midlands food region."
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