Owners make 'difficult decision' to close butcher's at Kent farm shop amid financial woes

A well-loved butcher's shop in Kent is closing today amid mounting financial pressure.

The butcher's at Harvel House Farm in Meopham will shut its doors to the public for the last time on Saturday 4 January saying it 'has not been financially viable for some time.'

The butcher's sits within the farm shop, and despite closing, the owners say the cafe, sweet shop and pizza and grill will remain open.

Posting on social media, a spokesperson for the butcher's said: "It is with heavy hearts that we announce the closure of our butcher’s shop, with the final day of trade being Saturday, 4th January.

"This has been an incredibly difficult decision for us to make. We have worked tirelessly to keep the butchery going, but despite our best efforts, it has not been financially viable for some time.

"Unfortunately, we can no longer continue operating the butchery without incurring significant losses. We are deeply saddened, but we know this is the right step to ensure the future of Harvel House Farm.

"We want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for your unwavering support over the years.

"Your kindness, encouragement, and loyalty have meant the world to us, and we are truly grateful for every visit and every purchase.

"While the butchery is closing, this is not the end for Harvel House Farm. We are restructuring and have lots of exciting new plans on the horizon.

"Our café, sweet shop, and pizza & grill remain open, and we look forward to welcoming you for a cosy coffee, a sweet treat, or a delicious meal as we begin this new chapter.

"Thank you for your understanding during this challenging time. We remain committed to serving our community and are excited to continue building a space of warmth, quality, and connection for all to enjoy."

The news prompted a stream of comments from disappointed customers, with some pleading for the butcher's to stay open.

Posting on Facebook, Mark Champion said: "Really really sad to read this, it's the end of an era, the butchers has meant a lot to me, and has a lot of happy memories."

Di Cherry added: "A very sad moment. You have all worked so hard to keep this butcher's open."

Sam Gray posted: "Such a shame and I fear this will have a knock on effect with shoppers not using the cafe as much as they will be going elsewhere for shopping and therefore eat elsewhere."

And Dan Seex said: "Will always remember in lockdown serving the local community, sad news."

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