Maker Spotlight: Heritage Fine Foods

Down a small country lane in Coate, you’ll find the bustling warehouse of Heritage Fine Foods. From here, they sell wholesale fresh produce, straight from the farm, to catering and home customers alike.

We spoke to Emma and the team to learn more about how Heritage Fine Foods got started and why homegrown Wiltshire produce is key to their business’ success. 

How did Heritage Fine Foods get started?

Heritage Fine Foods was founded by Ken Mortimer, whose journey began as a grower in Bromham at just 20 years old. Together with his brother Neil, he opened 37 greengrocery shops, which thrived until the 1990s when the rise of out-of-town supermarkets led to their closure. Undeterred, Ken and his team transitioned into wholesale, supplying fresh produce to restaurants, cafés, care homes, and schools. 

In 2005, 5adaybox home veg box delivery service was launched to bring seasonal produce to our customers’ doors. Today, we continue to reflect Ken’s dedication to supporting local and British farmers wherever possible and providing exceptional customer service.

What local Wiltshire produce does Heritage Fine Foods sell? 

We’re proud to champion local Wiltshire produce wherever possible. When produce is in season in the UK, we prioritise sourcing it locally to ensure the freshest, most sustainable options for our customers. From crisp vegetables, herbs and salads to cheese, oils, and honey, we work closely with Wiltshire suppliers to bring the best of the region to your table. 

We’re also continually expanding our portfolio, seeking out new and exciting local products to support Wiltshire’s growers and artisans while offering our customers an ever-growing selection of delicious, locally sourced items.

How has support from inside the county helped you to grow? 

Support from within Wiltshire has been instrumental in helping Heritage Fine Foods grow. Local farmers, producers, and artisans have provided us with a steady supply of high-quality, seasonal ingredients, enabling us to offer exceptional products to our customers. The strong relationships we’ve built within the county have fostered trust and collaboration, which are key to our success. 

Additionally, the support of our loyal local customer base has allowed us to expand and adapt, from our wholesale operations to initiatives like the 5adaybox home delivery service. This sense of community and shared commitment to local produce has been at the heart of our growth.

How far outside of Wiltshire do you operate? 

Our products reach beyond Wiltshire into neighbouring areas, including Bath, Bristol, Hampshire, Somerset, Berkshire, and Gloucestershire. This wider delivery network allows us to share the high-quality, seasonal produce and local products we’re passionate about with customers across the region, while still maintaining strong ties to our Wiltshire roots.

How much of an impact does Wiltshire have on your business?  

The county’s rich agricultural heritage and network of talented farmers and producers provide us with a steady supply of fresh, seasonal produce and high-quality local goods. These partnerships ensure that we can offer exceptional products while supporting the local economy and reducing food miles. 

Which of your products would you recommend to first-time buyers? 

For first-time 5adaybox customers, we recommend trying one of our curated seasonal boxes. These boxes offer great value, as we take advantage of weekly pricing to include as much seasonal UK produce as possible. Plus, you can swap and shop up to three items you don’t like, ensuring it’s tailored to your preferences. Remarkably, these boxes are still designed each week by Ken all these years later, maintaining the care and attention that started it all.

For wholesale customers, we encourage buying with the seasons to make the most of local and British produce. This not only supports sustainability but also ensures the freshest and most flavourful ingredients. We’re always available to guide chefs on what’s in season and help them make the best choices for their menus.

Do you sell anything unique that customers would be hard pressed to find elsewhere?

While we don’t grow our own products, we do work closely with local farmers and artisans to offer the best produce we can supply.

We also save wonky veg, which many supermarkets reject. By embracing these perfectly good but imperfectly shaped vegetables, we help reduce food waste while supporting our farmers. 

What truly sets us apart, however, is our customer service. We pride ourselves on going above and beyond to provide first-class support, ensuring our customers always have a positive experience working with us.

What difference does your produce make to hospitality businesses?

Our produce makes a significant difference to hospitality businesses by providing them with fresh, high-quality, and seasonal ingredients that elevate their dishes. By sourcing locally and prioritising seasonal produce, we help chefs create menus that are not only flavourful but also sustainable and cost-effective. Our commitment to freshness ensures that every ingredient is packed with taste and nutrition, enhancing the overall dining experience for their customers. Additionally, our willingness to guide chefs on what’s in season allows them to innovate and adapt their menus, keeping offerings exciting and aligned with the best the region has to offer.

What does a scheme like the Wiltshire Marque mean to you?

The Wiltshire Marque is a fantastic initiative that brings together the very best suppliers, producers, and businesses from across the county in one place. It fosters a real sense of ownership and pride in Wiltshire, helping to highlight the exceptional quality and diversity of local products. 

For us, it not only strengthens our connections within the community but also enables us to source even more local produce, ensuring we support and showcase the incredible talent right on our doorstep. It’s all about celebrating what makes Wiltshire unique and supporting local businesses to thrive.

How can people order from you, on a wholesale or retail basis?

For wholesale orders, simply call us on 01380 860968, and Rob, our Sales Manager, will arrange a visit to discuss your needs and set up an account or visit www.heritagefinefoods.co.uk for more information.

For retail orders, head over to our website at www.5adaybox.co.uk to place your order directly.

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