Lead for N&S Business Mon

MORE than 20 Cumbrian food producers are anticipating a boost to sales following the opening of Cranstons' new food hall in Brampton next Monday. FEB 15

They already supply Cranstons' food halls in Penrith and Orton Grange, near Carlisle, and were invited to view the new premises in Bramtpon last week. 

The Penrith-based retailer has converted the former HSBC bank in Front Street, which closed two years ago.

Staff will transfer from its butchers’ shop opposite, but the larger premises mean that another four jobs have been created.

The food hall will sell locally-sourced beef, pork and lamb, plus produce such as jams, chutneys and preserves, freshly-baked bread, locally-brewed ales, and wines.

It will also feature a hot takeaway counter and a pick-and-mix salad bar. 

Suppliers include Cumberland Mustard, Farrer’s, TrayBakes, Claire's Handmade, Brysons, North Lakes Dairy, Kin Vodka, Eden Brewery and The Tractor Shed Brewing Co.

Jason Hill, of Eden Brewery at Brougham, near Penrith, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that Cranstons will be stocking our traditional ales.

“We hope Brampton customers will try and enjoy the range. It’s great to see a Cumbrian business supporting other local businesses."

David Dickinson and his wife Rosie, of Brockwoodlees Farm at Canonbie, have been been supplying beef to Cranstons for more than 20 years.

Mr Dickinson said: “The additional food hall at Brampton is great news for Cranstons' farm suppliers as it gives us the confidence to develop our businesses knowing that future demand is secure.” 

The venture had been due to open before Christmas but was delayed by unforeseen structural work. It will now open at 10am next Monday, two years to the day since the bank shut.

Shoppers will be offered a glass of fizz and a slice of a giant celebration cake, baked by Bryson's of Keswick, and the chance to taste samples of local produce. 

The first 200 to spend £20 or more will receive a free bag-for-life.

The firm's operations director, Roger Cranston, said: “Cranstons have always bought high quality cattle, lambs and pigs from local farms but the food hall concept has allowed us to offer customers produce from a wide range of Cumbrian producers.

“The food industry in our area has a real strength and depth, with lots of passionate producers and great brands.

“We are excited to be offering these to Brampton shoppers.”