Country store strengthens its position in North Devon

November 2008

Recent developments at Cornwall Farmers' Bideford Country Store, situated on Barnstaple Road, East The Water has increased its profitability, seeing 30% growth following two phases of expansion. Phase one saw the feed store double in size, enabling the range and availability to be enhanced. Phase two saw the conversion of redundant office space into a useful area to introduce our range of horticultural machinery and garden products. Phase 3 will see a further 67% increase in the retail area.

"In the twelve months since I joined the business we have achieved a great deal," remarked Christopher Malcomson MBE, Cornwall Farmers' Retail Operations General Manager. "Our products are better displayed making it easier for customers to find what they want. We have invested in our people by recruiting more agriculturally experienced staff, providing further customer service and product training. We have enhanced our offer with new product ranges, each one designed to compliment your existing needs."

"The results are pleasing," continued Christopher. "Footfall is up, sales are up, and profits are up enabling us to provide cash discounts for members. However, if we are to continue to outperform the wider retail sector, continued development of the branches is essential. It is for this reason I have reviewed our facilities in North Devon."

Cornwall Farmers' Country Store located at Station Road, South Molton was acquired from J Cole and Sons in 2003. Whilst the agricultural trade from that business was sound, the country store always underperformed, being a poor building for the job and in a disadvantaged location. The country store has lost money in the last two years and despite recent upturns in sales generated by the superlative efforts of the excellent staff, the country store is still being subsidised to an unsustainable extent.

Given an approaching break in the lease; it has been decided to discontinue activities at the rented South Molton site but instead invest in the freehold property at Bideford.

"We do value our loyal South Molton customers," remarked Christopher, "and to this end we are currently devising an incentive scheme to assist our membes and customers transfer their business to our Bideford and Hatherleigh Country Stores."