A SPOTLIGHT has been put on Bromsgrove's ever-growing independent hospitality scene ahead of a national event.
Businesses around the UK will be taking part in Small Business Saturday this weekend (December 2) to encourage people to shop locally ahead of the busy festive period.
Visit Worcestershire and Bromsgrove District Council have joined forces to celebrate Bromsgrove's hospitality scene, which has seen an increase in popularity over recent years.
Residents and visitors can enjoy many culinary experiences on the High Street, with a range of cuisines to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Bayley’s of Bromsgrove is a family-run venue on the High Street, popular for serving fresh ground coffee throughout the day, as well as an extensive range of craft beer. Partnering with local neighbours, Steamhouse, customers can indulge in their bagels and cakes.
A short walk from Bayley’s is the Little Ale House. A beer lovers paradise, with a selection of locally sourced brews and guest ales. Opened by owner Terry in 2013, this small business benefits the community massively and is firmly cemented along Bromsgrove’s High Street.
Nestled in the middle of the High Street is Casa Med Tapas, a taste of the Mediterranean in the heart of Bromsgrove. This restaurant comes with an impressive reputation, serving an ever-changing menu and tapas served the traditional way.
Melt is another Bromsgrove foodie spot, embracing the High Street with its flair and personality after opening in 2021. Serving pizza, burgers and great beers, the restaurant has firmly established itself as a top eatery in the area.
The Dry Spy takes you back to an era gone-by, with a 1920’s interior design paired with a large cocktail selection and small plates. The venue hosts several live music events, featuring jazz and swing acts celebrating the roaring 1920’s.
Last on the list of independents is Bromsgrove Pizza Co. Hand-stretched dough made fresh to order, inspired by the streets of New York. Oliver Schaunig is the proud owner of the restaurant, as well as the nearby eatery ‘Ollies’ which is also located along Bromsgrove High Street.
Councillor Marc Bayliss, cabinet member for Economy, Infrastructure and Skills at Worcestershire County Council, said: “Small Business Saturday is an important date in the calendar to support local small businesses who rely heavily on footfall to our High Streets. Independent businesses are at the heart of our local communities and this campaign is a reminder to shop and dine small ahead of the busy season for retail and hospitality businesses.”
After being shortlisted alongside 30 other UK towns, Bromsgrove was crowned the England Champion at the Let’s Talk About Town Awards. In association with The British Retail Consortium and Visa, Bromsgrove has been awarded a £20,000 prize which will allow to continue important partnership work between Visit Worcestershire, North Worcestershire Economic and Regeneration Partnership and Bromsgrove District Council. The grant will be used to launch a brand-new food and drink initiative in Bromsgrove in May 2024 with more details coming at a later date.
To celebrate Small Business Saturday visitors to Bromsgrove will have access to free parking in Bromsgrove District Council Car Parks on 2nd & 3rd December, as well as street entertainment located on the High Street.
Councillor Karen May, council leader of Bromsgrove District Council, said: “It is wonderful to turn the focus on our independents, especially our food and drink retailers. By working with partners I hope we can work towards promoting this further next year and encouraging more people to have a taste of Bromsgrove.”
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