According to research it takes 66 days to build a new habit. During lockdown, many consumers formed new habits, with many being forced to discover local food retailers on their doorstep when supermarkets and deliveries where difficult to access.  This has led to a consumer movement around shopping locally and supporting local businesses.

Importantly, customers can see who their money is going too and are really embracing the notion of supporting their community and voting with their wallets with which businesses they are now supporting.

Developing a hospitality or food offering within your Garden Centre is a well-established way to help make your location a destination experience and diversify your income, but for many local farm shops have also helped tap into the conscious consumer market. What are the best ways to set up a farm shop/café?

How can you build lasting relationships with local farmers and suppliers? How can you continue to make yourself a centre of the community whilst ensuring a level of business resilience?