Meet Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards judge Holly Shackleton, Editor of Speciality Food Magazine.
We caught up with Holly for a quick Q&A session, read on to find out more about Holly and why she thinks these Awards are so important...
Who are you? Where are you from? And what do you do?
Holly Shackleton, editor of Speciality Food Magazine and from the Suffolk/Essex border.
What was your first job?
Working in my (independent) village shop, coincidentally!
What is the most rewarding part of your current job?
Being in contact with so many passionate, enterprising and inspiring go-getters.
What are the most important considerations when judging a retailer?
Innovation within the business; that the retailer is being proactive rather than simply reactive; that they have a genuine passion for what they do; and that they work hard to be a valuable resource and hub for their local community,
Why do you think these Awards are important?
The lives of independent retailers are very busy, and it’s vital that they are given an opportunity to lift their heads above their To Do lists to celebrate their achievements and be recognised by the sector – and to be inspired by the people around them.
Who or what has been your biggest influence to get you to where you are today?
Originally my family – my parents both come from publishing backgrounds and my mother is a staunch supporter of independent retailers – but since I've been in the industry, I’ve certainly been influenced by the passionate people around me within the sector to keep building myself, the magazine and the industry wherever possible.
What’s the most unusual situation you’ve found yourself in because of your job?
This job has had me doing some pretty odd things, but top of the list would likely be playing drums on stage with a band of geishas!
What is your go-to coffee/tea order?
I’m very open minded about hot drinks – and food in general – so if I could be surprised with something I’ve never tried before I’d be delighted. Failing that, probably a flat white or a cup of Ceylon with milk.
Where/when are you happiest?
Very difficult to pin this down, but if there was a place that could incorporate a bit of independent shopping, the great outdoors (ideally with some gardening and/or wildlife involved), and a cosy sit down with a cup of something hot, it would be ticking a good number of boxes for me.
Where in the world would you tell everyone to visit?
Suffolk! My home county is an absolute treasure trove of incredible food, stunning landscape – rolling hills and beautiful coastline, what could be finer? - creativity, and excellent people.
Meet our full judges line-up for 2022 here.
