A former international fresh produce manager has set up a “naked” business designed to cater for consumers waning away from the supermarkets.
Chris Bavin, former sales manager at Israeli exporter Agrexco, is opening up an 87sqm shop, The Naked Grocer, in Surrey as he looks to kick-start a resurgence in independent greengrocery.
Bavin, who worked for Agrexco for nine years, set up the Walton-on-Thames business in just six weeks after spotting a gap in the market in the area. The shop’s evocative tagline is “your new local greengrocer with a difference”.
Bavin told freshinfo: “I have seen a change in perceptions. People are getting tired of supermarkets and are looking for high-quality product.
“There is definitely room in the market for such a store and we are looking to do as much local, or British, product as possible. Obviously, we won’t forego imported products such as bananas and mangoes etc, but it’s about finding a balance.”
Bavin is bullish despite questions over opening up during a recession. He said: “It’s always a risk with any new venture, but I think if you can make it work now, it proves you are in good stead to be profitable long term.
“We will look to extend into further shops if this one is successful, but you have to be mindful that you are only as good as the quality of your staff, so we’ll take it step by step,” he added.
Bavin is also looking at supplying caterers in the independent café, restaurant and bar trade.
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