Hawkshead Relish triumph as Retailer of the Year

The Hawkshead Relish Company beat off stiff competition at the first annual Westmorland Gazette Business & Tourism Awards 2010.

Mark & Maria Whitehead co-owners of the Hawkshead Relish Company collected the coveted prize for ‘Retailer of the Year’ at the first annual Westmorland Gazette ‘Business & Tourism’ awards 2010, at a glittering ceremony on Friday 17th Spet at Castle Green Hotel. The event hosted by Diane Oxberry of BBC Northwest saw Hawkshead Relish beat off strong competition from other entrepreneurial finalists from around Cumbria and North Lancashire, Hawkshead Relish were awarded the accolade for their commitment in establishing their artisan brand from their beginnings within their shop in Hawkshead to further supplying national and now international retailers in 21 countries across 4 continents.

Production of the range consisting of over 100 handmade preserves takes place in a converted 16th century barn at Esthwaite with the Hawkshead Relish shop situated in the idyllic village square of Hawkshead providing a window of the multi award winning range holding over 40 Great Taste Awards.

The company has consistently grown over the 10 years it has been established, seeing turnover increase by 10% in the last 12 months and a regular growth in orders.

Maria Whitehead comments ‘it is fantastic for the business to be recognised with this accolade, especially as it represents the area and locality where we are delighted to reside, it also acknowledges the tireless work of our dedicated local team each member adept in their individual role’, Mark adds ‘it also accepts and proves that a sustainable business like ours who further supports local businesses relying on the quality and service they provide is every bit as competitive as large manufacturing enterprises’.