DIVERSIFICATION, supporting Sussex producers and putting quality first are the key to success for a shop celebrating its 10th anniversary.

So say Mark Robinson and Jonathan Brantigan, owners of independent specialist food shop Pallant of Arundel.

They say they have managed to keep their business thriving over ten years despite pressure that has seen Arundel town centre change dramatically.

Co-owner Jonathan Brantigan said: “Since we came to Arundel we’ve seen a lot of shops disappear, such as the greengrocers and chemists, and also the loss of our two High Street banks.

“But we are happy to say that our business is still going strong in spite of pressures on local businesses.

“The recent 12 per cent rise in business rates will make it even tougher but we are determined to keep making this work.

“I believe small, independent businesses like us are the custodians of the British High Street and we take that role very seriously”

Mr Brantigan and business partner Mark Robinson swopped their London careers to take over Pallant of Arundel.

Mr Robinson worked as a wine specialist with top department stores Fortnum and Mason and Selfridges and has enjoyed taking his expertise direct to customers.

He said: “So many people come in and say ‘what a lovely shop’ and that means a lot.

“We probably have too many lines but we taste them all and love being able to offer so much choice to our customers.

“Since taking on this business we have expanded our range of quality produce to include the best of Sussex and beyond.

“We have strong relationships with local producers and pride ourselves on passing on their passion to our customers.”

There’s been a grocer’s shop on Arundel town square for more than 100 years and many of the current staff have been with Pallant for over a decade, amassing huge knowledge about their products and what customers want.

Pallant of Arundel has launched a tenth anniversary video about its story in business and it will also be offering customers 10 per cent off on all sales of Sussex sparkling wines throughout May.

Jonathan said: “It is a time to look back as well as forward and I hope this video helps people to understand and celebrate our 10 years along with us.

“We also hope to see as many customers as possible to celebrate the anniversary with us.”

The anniversary video is available on this Youtube channel:

https://youtu.be/Pb3oh_zfA9c

The video was produced by beechtobeach - an Arundel-based media production company and more information can be found at www.beechtobeach.com

Fore more information on Pallant of Arundel go to

www.pallantofarundel.co.uk

Homes and Gardens magazine said: “A rich heritage, lovely antiques shops and a lively cultural buzz make Arundel an alluring getaway.”

The Times included it among the 30 coolest places to live.