Hospitality group announces new store opening

17 January 2008

The Lewis Partnership, owners of the popular Swan and Moat House hotels in Staffordshire have announced the latest addition to the hospitality group this week.

The Greengate Deli, a retail outlet specialising in fine food from local producers, take-away sandwiches and a delicatessen, will open in the former Three Cooks bakery on Greengate Street in the spring.

Chris Lewis, Managing Partner of The Lewis Partnership, said: "Supporting and promoting local food producers has been a goal within the hotels for some time but opportunities are often limited to certain produce being used in the kitchen. By opening the deli we hope to provide a stage for a wide variety of local companies that are producing some really excellent food and drink."

The Lewis Partnership will be working closely with regional food group, Heart of England Fine Foods (HEFF), to source and communicate with the local producers. Georgina Taylor, Staffordshire Marketing Executive for HEFF, said: "At HEFF we are the main contact for retailers and chefs wishing to source quality regional produce. There are lots of opportunities for the Greengate Deli to really champion local food and drink with the support of HEFF in educating the customer about the food and drink on their doorstep through talks and tastings at the shop and joining in with seasonal offers and events. I am very excited about the new deli in Stafford which will be any food lovers first stop for local food and drink."

As well as a shop for local food and drink, Greengate Deli will also be serving take-away food and hot drinks and there are plans to introduce both public and private cookery classes, which will be delivered by some of the regions finest Chefs.

Matt Davies, Executive Head Chef for The Lewis Partnership, commented: "The deli is a very exciting project, with many possible uses. We are currently investigating the possibility of having a teaching kitchen in which members of the public can spend time learning more about food and the techniques used in food preparation. These events could make perfect gifts or just an entertaining night out for a group of friends."

The Greengate Deli is currently undergoing a major refit and is scheduled for opening in the Spring, it is estimated that the store will create up to 20 new full and part time jobs within the group.

For further information regarding The Lewis Partnership visit their website at www.thelewispartnership.co.uk.

-ends-

For all media enquiries please contact

Ben Sutcliffe - Director - Sponge Marketing Ltd

T: 01785 891900 M: 07966250434 E: ben@spongemarketing.co.uk