Here's where to find The Cheese Wedge shop in Chester

Chester business The Cheese Wedge has relocated to a new shop at 1 Goss Street after being turned down for a stall within the new Chester Market.

Mr Williams was surrounded by family, friends and regular customers as he and staff member Dan Riley cut the ribbon at their new premises.

Having won Best Market Trader at Chester Bid Customer Service Awards 2021, the trader did have some mixed feelings about the move.

Mr Williams said: "It feels strange not being in the Market and I'll certainly miss the camaraderie and banter amongst the remaining stall holders having been there for so long but I'm sure I'll settle in at the new shop in the coming weeks."

Mr. Williams cut the ribbon alongside Mr. Riley and some young customers

Mr William's stall, alongside David Joinson Quality Meats and Ian's 5 A Day had become local heroes after they came together to provide deliveries of fresh produce during the pandemic.

Cheshire West and Chester Council previously stated: "To apply for a place in the new market, traders were asked to complete an application form and provide evidence of their trading history or provide an optional business plan.

"Each application was scored against a set of criteria which included their experience, marketing strategy and business viability.

The council said the evaluation panel was made up of the council’s markets team, and external advisers – some with nationally recognised expertise in developing markets as well as local independent business representation. The council is obliged by law to achieve best value in all its property transactions and this thorough process ensured that this obligation was met.

Many customers have already followed Kevin to the new shop.

"It's been great to see so many regulars coming to see us today to wish us well and to also be joined by family and friends for our grand opening. Its been a fantastic day, we couldn't be more pleased."

Whilst keeping their extensive range of cheeses, chutneys, pickles as well as free range eggs, the new shop has a smart and contemporary interior, which has provided its owner with the space to try out new ideas. Mr Williams plans to hold regular events, including cheese and wine tastings. A St. Patrick's Day cheese and beer night is also in the pipeline with Irish ales and cheese on offer.

The new shop will mean space for regular events

"Whilst we had hoped to have been a part of the new Market, everything happens for a reason, the new shop has worked out well and gives us the scope to hold regular tasting events and collaborations with other local independent retailers."

"We're really excited about the future and we're looking forward to seeing what other new opportunities having the shop will open up for us."