A BUSINESS in the Vale of Glamorgan has made it to the regional finals of a farm shop of the year awards.

Forage Farm Shop and Kitchen is one of three such businesses to make the Farm Shop and Deli Show regional finals in Wales.  

On the fancy Penllyn Estate Farm Llwynhelig, near Cowbridge, the shop describes its ethos as “simple”, saying its aim is to provide fresh, seasonal food and to champion and celebrate Welsh produce.

The majority of the ingredients are sourced locally, with a large amount originating from Penllyn Estate Farm itself and the remainder supplied by carefully chosen partners. The shop is also RSPCA assured.

Penllyn Estate has been farmed by the Homfray family since 1846.

On their website, Forage say: “Today, the estate is home to a diverse range of businesses, but agriculture remains at its core.

“Feed wheat, oil seed rape, maize and vegetables form the bulk of the crops grown, while the livestock operation focuses on the rearing of cattle, sheep and pigs.

“There is also a large brood of free-range chickens that supplies the shop and kitchen with eggs.

“Sustainable farming practices are embraced where possible, and the estate has planted more than 50,000 trees since 1990 - approximately 10 per cent of the farm is woodland.”

‘Unmissable proposition for progressive food and drink professionals across the industry’ 

The UK Food and Drink Shows unite four shows under one roof, covering the complete supply chain in three comprehensive days of insight, innovation and inspiration.

Farm Shop and Deli Show joins National Convenience Show, Foodex Manufacturing Solutions, and Food and Drink Expo.  

Forage’s stiff competition

Forage faces stiff competition from Bodnant Welsh Food, in Colwyn Bay, and Nolton Cross Farm Shop, in Pembrokeshire.

The regional winners will be revealed live from Farm Shop and Deli Show, at the NEC Birmingham on Tuesday, April 25.