The team behind the new Tatton motorway services on the M56 is inviting local businesses, producers and craftsmen to help stock its farmshop, ahead of an expected opening in spring 2028.
The Westmorland family, which operates the Tebay services in Cumbria, will run the development. Tebay has previously been named the best services in the UK. The proposals for the farmshop and butchery, along with a 100-bed hotel and petrol station, on 39 acres of green belt land between J7 and J8 of the M56 were signed off by the Government last year.
What Westmorland Is Looking For
Westmorland said it wants to speak to 'businesses that grow, rear, make or craft their own products, from exceptional food and drink to original art, clothing and housewares'. The group has issued an invitation to businesses within 30 miles of the new services to attend an informal meet the buyer event next Thursday (November 19), saying it is looking to work with 'at least 70'.
Westmorland said: “From artworks and prints to clothing, knitwear, textiles, jewellery, ceramics, candles and housewares, the team is looking for pieces that bring joy to everyday life or make a thoughtful gift. In keeping with Westmorland’s “Proper Food” philosophy, the food and drink offer will celebrate quality ingredients, food made with care and wholesome choices for people on the move.
Food and Drink Priorities
“Producers making snacks, soft drinks, confectionery, bread, cakes and deli products are particularly sought, alongside distinctive tea and coffee businesses that could help shape the farmshop’s offer. The team wants to build short, transparent supply chains for dairy, meat, fruit and vegetables, working directly with farmers and growers who share its commitment to quality, provenance and environmental responsibility.
“A named local dairy is a priority, providing milk for the farmshop and the thousands of teas and coffees served each day, alongside cheese, which Cheshire is famed as well as ice cream. For dairy and meat, traceability means knowing where animals were born, where and how they were raised, and what they were fed, alongside named breeds and welfare standards.
“The butchery offer will change seasonally, and the team are looking for producers with a range of breeds and including game and poultry. Local growers are also sought for seasonal fruit and vegetables, including soft fruits, asparagus and heritage varieties of apples and pears.”
Support and Next Steps
The £65m development is expected to open in spring 2028. It is hoped it will create more than 400 jobs. Producers will be offered support through an onboarding process, guidance on achieving required food standard accreditations, and practical help to bring their products to market. The meet event is to be held at Groobarb’s Wild Farm, in High Legh, with businesses able to register their attendance on the Tatton Services website.
Dan Pearson, commercial director, said: “At Westmorland, our ethos is about celebrating the small and special, which we’ve been doing for over 50 years. We want the unique, the interesting and the joyful, products made with care by people who have a story to tell.
“This is a chance to build something rooted in its surroundings, where customers can discover the area through what they eat, drink and take home. With millions of motorists passing along the M56, Tatton Services offers local producers the opportunity to reach a much wider audience.
“We want to build lasting relationships, helping our producers grow as we grow. Come and meet us, share your story and show us what makes your products special.”
