ANOTHER award has been added to The Mainstreet Trading Company collection, the latest for the delicatessen, which was only opened in November 2012.
From nearly 300 entries nationwide, Rosamund and Bill de la Hey’s business scooped the ‘Delicatessen of the Year’ in the Farm Shop and Deli Awards.
The awards, in partnership with Olives Et Al, recognise the very best standards in speciality retail and celebrate the highest levels of service, product knowledge, initiative, innovation and community involvement.
Bill de la Hey said: “It’s very exciting to have won this prestigious award. The endorsement of such a knowledgeable judging panel will drive us forwards with even greater ambition.
“It is a privilege to be able to turn a passion into a business and, together with our hugely talented team of staff, enjoy sourcing from an inspiring range of producers and suppliers.”
The Mainstreet Trading Company was selected as one of twelve category winners following a day of intensive judging by leading speciality retailers and key industry figures along with mystery visits conducted throughout December by BBC Radio 2’s Nigel Barden, chair of judges.
Mr Barden said: “It’s gratifying to know that there are so many excellent purveyors of food and drink in Britain, like The Mainstreet Trading Company.
“During the mystery visits I have been delighted, moved and inspired by the people I’ve met and it’s marvellous to find local retailers like The Mainstreet Trading Company are so much at the heart of their community.”
Fellow judge Neil Nugent, executive chef and head of product development at Morrison’s said: “The awards are a brilliant opportunity for the UK’s small independent businesses to get recognition nationally and enable them to become a destination.”
The awards received a record number of entrants and thousands of public votes from consumers supporting their favourite speciality retailers.
An overall winner will be announced at the Farm Shop and Deli Show at Birmingham’s NEC in March.
Borders MSP John Lamont has lodged a motion with the Scottish Parliament to commend the efforts of Mainstreet’s owners.
Mr Lamont said: “I was delighted to hear that once again The Mainstreet Trading Company has been recognised on the national stage.
“For years they have been widely regarded as one of the best book shops in the UK, but to also win an award for their fantastic deli shows the high standards they are achieving.”
He added: “We are extremely lucky to have one of the best businesses in the UK operating here in the Borders.”