THERE was a party atmosphere to the re-opening of a refurbished Broadstone food store.

Budgens at The Broadway, which prides itself on selling local produce, was opened by Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, cutting a ribbon to let queuing customers flood into the store.

“I use this shop regularly and will now be able to buy more locally sourced foods and a wider range of all sorts of exciting food and drink,” said Annette.

“I am sure my constituents will find shopping here a most enjoyable experience.”

There was a live jazz band to entertain customers and as part of the celebrations they were able to taste food from local suppliers and Poole chef Pete Miles, lately seen on TVs Harbour Lives, gave an in-store cooking demonstration.

“What a great day,” said store manager Nigel Hughes. “The whole team have worked really hard over the last few months to get the store you see today.

“I’ve always thought it’s important that we’re a good neighbour. We’ve listened to what the people of Broadstone want and have delivered a bright store with a wide range of goods and an improved local supplier range. We’ll continue to listen to our customers to get their views on the types of products they want to see.”

The store has undergone extensive improvements both inside and out, with significant investment in improving the range of produce, with a strong commitment to local and smaller suppliers. And it has increased the number of staff by seven, now employing 37 people from the local area.

  • Budgens is always interested in hearing from new local suppliers. Contact store manager Nigel Hughes to find out more.