The historic garden centre in Aberdeen seeks to attract more visitors with a new cafe.
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The Ben Reid Garden Centre, a cherished establishment in Countesswells, Aberdeen, is taking significant steps to rejuvenate its business by proposing the addition of a cafe. This initiative comes after a series of challenging years, particularly exacerbated by the pandemic, which has affected many small businesses across the region.
Revitalizing a historic business
With over 250 years of history, the family-run Ben Reid Garden Centre has been a staple in the local community, known for its diverse range of plants and gardening supplies. Managing director Simon Fraser, who has led the business for the past two decades, is optimistic that the new cafe will not only attract more visitors but also enhance the overall customer experience.
“We are still recovering from the Covid period, as many small businesses are,” Fraser noted, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to thrive in a competitive market.
Meeting customer demand
Fraser revealed that there is a strong demand for a coffee shop among the centre’s customers. “We get phone calls all the time and people turning up asking about it because it goes hand-in-hand with selling plants now,” he explained. The proposed cafe aims to provide a welcoming space for visitors to enjoy refreshments while browsing the extensive plant selection, thus creating a more holistic shopping experience.
Strategic growth in a tough market
In light of recent weather challenges that have impacted seasonal sales, the addition of a cafe is seen as a strategic move to boost foot traffic, especially during inclement weather. “Running a business where you are only making money for four or five months is getting incredibly challenging,” Fraser admitted. The cafe is envisioned as the first step towards broader expansion plans, which may include a food hall featuring local vendors, further solidifying the garden centre’s role as a community hub.
Community focus and future plans
The Ben Reid family is enthusiastic about the potential of the cafe to serve as a focal point in the community. Fraser believes that their local, family-oriented approach sets them apart from larger chain competitors. “We can offer something that is a little bit more Aberdeen,” he stated, highlighting the importance of local identity in their business model. As plans progress, the garden centre aims to create a unique destination that not only supports local businesses but also enriches the community experience.
As the proposal moves forward, the Ben Reid Garden Centre is hopeful that the cafe will not only enhance its business prospects but also strengthen its ties with the local community, making it a beloved gathering place for years to come.
