NatWest funding gives Cudworth Poppy’s Florist and Coffee shop new life

The residents of Cudworth, Barnsley, will be happy to hear that the local florist and coffee shop is blossoming into a successful business.

Local couple, Lee and Alison Gough, have pursued their dream of owning their own business together by purchasing Poppy’s Florist and Coffee shop in the small South Yorkshire village.

Alison desired a lifestyle change after working as a school bursar for many years, so when the married duo learned that Poppy’s was for sale, they immediately began to seek funds in order to invest in the venture.

Upon deciding that the florist and coffee shop was the perfect purchase, Lee and Alison acquired support and the appropriate funds from NatWest.

Poppy’s now boosts a staff of eight, including Alison who manages the whole business.

Alison said: “I just fell in love with the business. Poppy’s has a great reputation for its floral displays and packages, and the coffee shop is just a nice place to come and visit with friends. It’s a great local business. When the estate agents contacted us to say the business was available just before Christmas we jumped on it and everything progressed quite quickly.”

Natwest relationship manager Gavin Senior helped the couple through every step of their new purchase.

Alison added, “Gavin has been fantastic. He was very accommodating, even popping round to our home after working hours to finalise the paperwork as myself and Lee were unable to get into the bank at times due to our current work commitments.”

Gavin, the NatWest relationship manager, commented: “I was delighted to support Alison and Lee with the purchase of Poppy’s. They presented a great business plan which showed their commitment to the business and I wish them every success for the future.”