Cheese Retailers April 2024

14 @specialityfood LOCATION: STAMFORD, LINCOLNSHIRE FOUNDED: XXXX FOUNDER: PERRYWAKEMAN Rennet &Rind T here aren’t many businesses that can claim to be award- winning from when they very first opened their doors, but Stamford’s Rennet & Rind is one such business. CEO and affineur, Perry Wakeman, was named the inaugural Affineur of the Year in 2022, and his “journey in cheese maturation” has led to the shop being a beacon for British artisan cheese. “Our distinctiveness lies in our unwavering commitment to British artisan cheese,” explains Perry. “We don’t just sell cheese; we mature it, enhancing the unique flavours and honouring the traditions and innovations of British cheesemakers.” The Stamford shop showcases a handpicked selection of British cheeses expertly matured in Rennet & Rind’s Cambridge-based maturing rooms. Indeed, as Perry explains, “Our specialisation in affinage sets us apart in the cheese community.” It‘s not only in the field of affinage that Rennet & Rind stands apart from the crowd. Education is also key to the team’s approach, with staff investing time in each customer to ensure that they come away with not only a top- notch experience, but knowledge too. “We surprise our new customers with our generous tastings, embodying our belief that everyone should have the opportunity to explore and learn about British artisan cheese,” says Perry. “Our approach isn’t just about selling cheese; it’s about educating and sharing our passion. Each customer receives a one-to-one tasting experience, where a dedicated Rennet & Rind cheesemonger guides them through our selection, tailoring suggestions based on their preferences and building a profile of cheeses that suit their palate.” This time-consuming approach doesn’t always reap instant financial Expert Affineurs MIDLANDS Perry’s plans for the coming year support his mission to be the region’s best affineur and cheesemonger. “We aim to broaden our range of artisan cheeses, host more educational events, and fortify our connections with local cheesemakers, further establishing Rennet & Rind as a centre for British cheese excellence.” A GRAND MISSION