Organic Farm Scores a Franchise Century

Riverford Organic Vegetables, the nation’s favourite veg box scheme, has signed its 100th franchisee. Dave Hanlon is the latest local distributor, to deliver freshly-picked, great-tasting seasonal vegetables straight to the doors of customers in Stockport and Macclesfield.

Over 22 years, Riverford Organic Vegetables has grown from a pioneering start with one man, a tractor and three acres of land, to a fast-expanding venture with four farms and 350 staff. The family-owned organic veg box business appeared in the Sunday Times 2007 Fast Track 100 list of companies with the fastest sales growth.

The business has grown by teaming up with ‘sister’ farms around the UK; meeting demand without compromising its commitment to low food miles, local employment, the support of local farmers and keeping a close link between grower and consumer. The franchisees provide an important point of contact between farm and customer.

“I am delighted to welcome Dave Hanlon to Riverford and wish him great success with his business.” said Ian Bradley, Commercial Director of Riverford. “Franchisees enable us to deliver our produce to customers by the most direct route possible.

“The franchisees bring customers fresh vegetables straight to their door, instead of delivering produce that has toured the UK and visited a distribution centre or two along the way. Our local distributors play a vital role in helping us keep the business to a local, responsive scale.”

Riverford aims to safeguard its franchisees from the vulnerabilities of the UK market by a proven business model, fair prices and shared knowledge, expertise and equipment.