Background
Tom Bowles is a 5th generation farmer and founder of the award-winning farm shop and cafe at his family farm, Hartley Farm, near Bradford on Avon.
When he first started working with Nigel he was being swept along with the success of a rapidly expanding business. He made business decisions based on instinct, and hoped that his growing team of employees shared his vision – but he couldn’t be sure.
Building the vision
To ensure that the whole team – which had rapidly expanded from 5 in 2008 to 35 in 2014 – shared a vision for the business, Nigel helped Tom draw up the Vision, Values and Purpose which guide the company and are used to recruit and develop new and existing staff.
Far from being a dry document that will sit in Tom’s desk drawer, it is aimed at inspiring staff and encouraging customers. It is proudly displayed in public areas of the business.
Plan for profit
Nigel and Tom also worked on a Plan for Profit.
Tom recognised that they needed diverse income streams so they have been working on projects like education as well as buildng the online side of the business.
This resulted in a 15% increase in turnover and strong cashflow. The business is showing that it can consistently generate cash to fund dividends and further investment projects.
Tom has also been able to take on the running of another nearby farm shop and cafe.
