Speciality Food April 2025

T he very best independent retailers skillfully combine the arts of warmhospitality and retail prowess, and support their local economy and communities, and Darts Farm sits firmly in this category. Now a food lovers’ haven, the shop and restaurant are must-visit destinations in their own right – despite, or maybe as a result of, its humble beginnings. Still verymuch a family business, with the hospitality headed up by next generation, George Dart. “My grandfather, Ronald, planted the seed by pioneering an innovative pick your own business in 1971,” George begins. “Long before it became fashionable, he believed in selling produce direct to the consumer and eating seasonally and locally.” Thankfully, this ethos of doing simple things well was handed down to the next generation. “When he passed away in 1982, my dad and uncles continued his legacy by evolving a small hut on the side of the road into Darts Farm as you know it today.” The next generation built on the philosophy, and are still at the helm of the business today. “The retail, lifestyle and hospitality business was dreamt up and built bymy dad and uncle James, with their brother Paul looking after the farming operation,” George explains. as it creates a tangible comradery for all to enjoy. “It is the experience that sets us apart, from a warmwelcome and delicious tastings on welcome, to the buzz around the food hall and eateries delivered by our amazing team,” says George. The very real excitement the teamhas for what they do is visible to everyone who enters the site. “Everywhere that you go there are people with a real passion for what they do and plenty of foodie knowledge to share; from our master butchers who are on hand to offer advice on the best cuts, fromnose to tail, to our cheesemongers who can recommend British farmhouse cheese and charcuterie that is tasting best during a particular season.” Skillful stocking Darts Farm’s plentiful customers return again and again for its perfectly curated range of food and drink, which not only supports the local food economy but also offers a of challenges thrown our way,” he continues. “It’s hard work, but makes us better in the long run!” In fact, Darts Farmhas just won yet another award to add to its bulging trophy cabinet. “We’ve just won UK’s Best FarmShop for a record fourth time,” says George, “which is testament to the relentless hard work, dedication and passion shown by our team. Our people are what makes our business special and we couldn’t be prouder of them.” Dedicated and passionate staff, conscientious product curation and a quality-first ethos; no wonder Darts Farm is delighting foodies in its native West Country and beyond. unique selection for its discerning customers to choose from. “The food hall champions homegrown, local food, artisan products, low food-miles, eating with the seasons, wellness and sustainable practices,” explains George. “We probably have one of the most diverse selections of artisan products in the country, it’s not just about the final product, but incredible ingredients too.” Local suppliers are well represented. “We work with over 250 suppliers fromhere in the West Country, and are constantly on the lookout for new and exciting products.” Trends don’t trump quality and craftmanship, though. “Even when looking for new products, we stick to our values and source food and drink crafted using traditional methods, minimal ingredients and amazing quality. In a world that is over-processed, we’re striving for the opposite!” Primed for success Like businesses across the food sector – and beyond – the team at Darts Farmhas weatheredmore than its fair share of crises. “We seem to be in a state of perpetual crisis, from Covid to the Ukraine war with sky high energy prices, labour shortages and now a disastrous government budget,” says George. Being part of the fine food industry offers light at the end of the tunnel, though, as well as a skillset whichmakes the business primed for success whatever the challenges it faces. “The beauty of our industry is that we are resilient and able to adapt to the onslaught IN PARTNERSHIP WITH FARM SHOP FOCUS specialityfoodmagazine.com 18 Warm hospitality, smart product curation and a community ethos come together to form this undisputable destination for fine food lovers DARTS FARM Our mission is to connect local people with local produce, championing a dynamic local economy, resilient small supply chain, vibrant community and sustaining our cultural heritage, environment and landscape Creating a community “Everything has been built on core values of championing local farmers and artisan producers while being imbedded in our local community,” says George. The destination retailer is a valuable asset to the local economy, too: “Today we directly employ around 250 people (with another 150 jobs on-site) and welcome 17,000 people through the doors each week.” The Darts Farmmission is at once invaluable and down-to- earth. “Our mission is to connect local people with local produce, championing a dynamic local economy, resilient small supply chain and vibrant community, and sustaining our cultural heritage, environment and landscape,” says George. This ethos has certainly served the teamwell, and the underlying plan to “bring people together over good food and drink, fostering meaningful connections with warmhospitality and genuine care” has been incredibly well received by both locals and visiting shoppers. Standing apart from the crowd This community ethos is proving successful for the Darts Farm team,