MP opens Tiptree farm shop following £500k revamp

Tom’s Farm Shop and Garden Centre on the Maldon Road, near Tiptree, was officially opened by Witham MP Priti Patel at the weekend.

Ms Patel carried out a formal ribbon cutting ceremony alongside owner Tom Gregan and his wife Nikki. 

This was followed by the unveiling of a plaque to commemorate the occasion. 

The MP was then given a tour of the updated facilities.

New features include a 240sqm air-conditioned building to house the retail side of the business. 

Inside the revamped farm shop

Other improvements include a major expansion in the range of stock available with everything from fine foods and home gifts to DIY tools, sheds and fencing.  

There is also a newly opened ice cream parlour in the onsite Forget Me Not Tearooms. 

In the process of making these changes, the business has expanded its team of employees.

Speaking after the ceremony Ms Patel said: “Tom’s Farm Shop and Garden Centre is a well known local landmark and I am delighted to have been here to help launch the new, updated facilities. 

Ms Patel opens the shop to customers

“I am always pleased when businesses in my constituency do well and are able to expand their operations and improve their appeal to customers.

“The new building looks fantastic and should be very popular locally.”

Priti Patel MP cuts the ribbon to declare the revamped Tom’s Farm Shop & Garden Centre formally open, alongside its owner, Tom Gregan and his wife, Nikki

Mr Gregan added: “It was great to have Priti here for the opening. 

“She has made our opening day even more special and I am grateful to her for taking the time out of her busy schedule to be with us today. 

“I’d also like to thank Maldon District Council, our local councillors, our employees and our customers for supporting the expansion and the business over many years.”

Further information about Tom’s Farm Shop and Garden Centre is available at tomsfarmshop.co.uk