Franchisees Jon and Vicky Ripley started their own organic-vegetable delivery-business through Riverford Organic Vegetables's award-winning box scheme in Exeter in 1999. And they have already doubled parent-company trading targets of 300 deliveries per week.

Commenting on their success, Jon Ripley said: 'Our customers really appreciate knowing how and where their food is produced. They receive deliveries of fresh produce direct from Devon farms less than 20 miles away.' Vicky Ripley added: 'It's been a very busy two-and-a-half years of hard work, but extremely rewarding. The support from Riverford has been very helpful. It's nice to know that you're not out there alone and that you've got the support there when you need it.' Riverford's business development manager Martin Swarbrick congratulated the couple on their success.

He said: 'When we launched in 1999, we thought that it would be good to see our franchisees delivering to 300 people per week. We are delighted that Jon and Vicky have more than doubled that expectation. Their success has come from sheer hard work and determination, and by offering a reliable service to customers.'

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