Partner Article

Lakeside deal secures bright future

AN EXPANDING North East retail firm has snapped up a new outlet and created new jobs for the region.

The company behind Otterburn Mill that already operates two stores in Northumberland, has aquired the retail operation at Lakeside Country Cafeat Ellerton, between Northallerton and Richmond in North Yorkshire.

The company adds its North Yorkshire branch to two successful stores in Otterburn and Rothbury owned by Euan Pringle, a member of the famous Scottish woollen manufacturers.

“The opening of Otterburn Mill at Lakeside has created new jobs, with the potential fo this to increase in the future,” he said.

“To find such a good quality client such as Otterburn Mill for a rural property such as this is exceptional,” said Carver Commercial director Julie Wallin, who brokered a 15-year lease.

“During these challenging times in the marketplace, it proves that there are good businesses out there that are doing well and looking to expand.”

Janet Butler, Otterburn Mill’s new retail operations manager at the North Yorkshire store, added: “We’ve got everything, from the classic clothing range loved by our older customers to a wide range of outdoor gear.”

Lakeside’s café is continuing to trade under the original management of Sarah and Graeme Thompson.

The Thompsons established Lakeside as a farm shop and cafe more than four years ago, building it into a strongly performing business after diversifying from pig farming and developing a butchery deliver round.

They converted a grain store at their North Farm home to create the spacious retail outlet and café. Graeme has resumed his butchery round, while Sarah devotes her time to the café.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .