Buyer sought for health food business

One of Reepham’s key retail businesses is up for sale. Diane’s Pantry has been put on the market as a going concern for £22,500, which includes the goodwill and assets, such as stock, fixtures and fittings.
 

Diane’s Pantry in Market Place, Reepham, is up for sale

 
A listing on the selling agents’ website suggests the health food shop, which operates in leased premises in the Market Place, is only for sale owing to “ill health”.
 
Established by Diane Turner in 1979, Diane’s Pantry moved to its existing premises in the early 1980s, and was sold to current owners Sarah Chapman and Debbie Abel less than two years ago.
 
Andrew Hadley, EM&F regional director based in Norwich, explained that the sale would involve a new lease being granted by the landlord, stressing that any new business would be in keeping with the status of Reepham as a thriving market town.
 
He was hopeful that a sale could be agreed soon, adding that the premises would definitely not become a fast-food takeaway.
 
According to EM&F’s website, Diane’s Pantry “enjoys a great reputation and has a large and loyal customer base. “It has much potential to be grown again into a highly profitable, quality, lifestyle business offering the new owner a place in the heart of the community.
 
“New top-end homes and townhouses are being built opposite, and within half a mile a large new development is about to be constructed, bringing many new people and added prosperity to the town. With the opening of the Dial House, much new money has come into town to the benefit of all and presents a great opportunity for the new owner to capitalise on.”
 
The store comprises a retail area of around 400 sq. ft. across two rooms. To the rear is a food preparation area and there is a 150 sq. ft. storeroom on the lower floor. With sales of around £180,000 for the last financial year, the business is being marketed as an “ideal opportunity for a hardworking couple to have a lovely lifestyle business in the heart of this upmarket small market town”. The current hours of business are Monday to Friday, 8 am – 5 pm; Saturday, 8 am – 2 pm.
 
Enquiries to Andrew Hadley, EM&F. Tel: 01603 280873. Email: anglia@emfgroup.com
 
Reepham Diner sale agreed
 
A sale has finally been agreed for the Reepham Diner and sweet shop on Townsend Corner. It is understood agreement has been reached for the sale of the existing business and goodwill “as is”, and that this will hopefully be completed “within a few weeks”. No further information was available as the July/August issue of Reepham Life went to press.
 
Hampton’s former premises to go on the market
 
Meanwhile, the property on Norwich Road, Reepham, recently vacated by Hampton’s Home & Garden was due to go on the market at the end of June. Owner Annie Benton, who recently moved to Hamptons @The Barn on Dereham Road, Bawdeswell, hopes to sell Beaver House for either commercial or residential use.
 
As well as furniture and home accessories and a 50-seat restaurant with outside terrace dining, Hampton’s has now opened a delicatessen section featuring a selection of local produce and home-made goods from its kitchen. Opening hours are Monday to Sunday, 10 am – 5.30 pm.
 

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