Welcome to Taste Montgomery
The idea of creating group of local food producers and hospitality providers working together was mooted in 2009 and in 2010 Taste Montgomery was formally constituted following grant funding awarded via Glasu.
The aim was, and still is, to support and promote local food producers (within a 6 mile radius of Montgomery); local businesses which provide food locally, either by direct retail, or through hospitality activities; and to enhance the relationship between producers, hospitality and retail providers, resulting in the promotion of local produce and food tourism.
Over the subsequent 10 years some members, like Monty’s Brewery and Hilltop Honey have become global suppliers; others, through choice, have remained small concerns. The current membership, now subscription based, consists of wide range of producers and hospitality business, all proud to be doing their bit for the local economy and supplying delicious local produce to their customers.
A new pop-up farm shop, deli and eatery stocking goods from 12 local producers has opened in the historic Welsh border market town of Montgomery. The new ‘Taste’ shop is situated in what was the Little Gallery, Broad Street, whose owner has kindly let members of Taste Montgomery use it for the next three months as a base to sell their wares. Councillor Jill Kibble, Montgomery’s Deputy Mayor, officially opened the new venture. Taste Montgomery has more than 30 members, comprising producers and hospitality providers whose purpose is to co-ordinate, enhance and promote what Montgomery and the locality has to offer. The aim is to encourage more visitors to the area as well as offering the local people more diversity and choice. Katrina Collins, the driving force behind the enterprise, said: “It’s so exciting and we are looking forward to being able to offer great food and drink from our members to the local community and visitors. Thank you to everyone who has helped and contributed to get this off the ground.
“We had a fabulous first week and I would like to thank everyone for their support, good wishes, cards and flowers. Do pop in to see all the delights we have to offer.”
‘Taste’ is very much a co-operative endeavour from production of the new sign, made by local graphic designer Keith Williams, to various Taste Montgomery members providing chillers and fridges, and friends and family providing practical skills, muscle and staffing the shop.
Phil Owens, Taste Montgomery chair, said:
“Our intention is to work together with other businesses in the neighbourhood, as well as Taste Montgomery members, in order to complement each other. This policy will help to promote what Montgomery has to offer.”
The shop is open between 1pm-6pm from Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday and 9am to 1pm Saturday. It is closed on Thursday as the stall will be on at the market in Broad Street.
Chair: Philip Owens
Vice Chair: Keith Thompson
Treasurer: John Jenkins
Acting Secretary: Pam Honeyman