Westmorland, known for its prowess in sourcing local supplies, is inviting farmers, food producers and craftspeople to a ‘meet the buyer event’ for its most urban motorway services, due to open in spring 2028.
The family business, which owns Tebay and Gloucester Services, wants to introduce its ‘proper food’ philosophy to the new Tatton site near Manchester Airport on the M56.
It has committed to working with at least 70 producers within 30 miles of Tatton Services, reflecting a “longstanding approach to local sourcing”. It says: “Their products will help give the farmshop its own identity, introducing visitors to the produce, skills and creativity of the surrounding area.”
It is also recruiting a head of filling stations and food to go, to lead on the buying of drinks, snacks, convenience and car-care lines at its sites in Tebay, Gloucester, Rheged, J38, Cairn Lodge and Tatton.
It says it is looking for someone “with strong commercial judgement, a genuine enthusiasm for good food and the ability to bring people together to deliver an excellent customer experience”.
The ‘Become a Tatton Maker’ event – on Thursday, November 19 – is aimed at businesses that grow, rear, make or craft their own products, “from exceptional food and drink to original art, clothing and housewares”.
The team wants to build short, transparent supply chains for dairy, meat, and fruit and vegetables, working directly with farmers and growers who share its commitment to quality, provenance and environmental responsibility.
Appointing a local dairy is a priority to supply milk for the farmshop and the thousands of teas and coffees which will be served each day, alongside ice cream and cheese, for which Cheshire is famed.
Dairy and meat farmers will provide traceability, showing where animals were born, and how they were raised, and fed. The butchery offer will change seasonally, and Westmorland is looking for producers with a range of breeds, as well as game and poultry. Local growers are also sought for seasonal fruit and vegetables, including soft fruits, asparagus and heritage varieties of apples and pears.
It is also looking for suppliers of aspirational lifestyle products which “bring joy to everyday life or make a thoughtful gift”, from artworks and prints, to clothing, knitwear, textiles, jewellery, ceramics, candles and housewares.
Producers making snacks, soft drinks, confectionery, bread, cakes and deli products are particularly sought, says the business, alongside distinctive tea and coffee businesses.
Westmorland commercial director Dan Pearson says: “At Westmorland, our ethos is about celebrating the small and special, which we’ve been doing for over 50 years. We want the unique, the interesting and the joyful, products made with care by people who have a story to tell. This is a chance to build something rooted in its surroundings, where customers can discover the area through what they eat, drink and take home.”
The drop-in producer event takes place from 10am to 3pm, at Groobarb’s Wild Farm, High Legh.
