A CHAIN of farm shops, with branches in Hampshire and Berkshire, has been nominated as a finalist for a national business award.

Cobbs, a multi-site farm shop and food hall operator, is up for the Lloyds Bank Small to Medium Sized Business of the Year Award.

The award honours exceptional small businesses that demonstrate outstanding growth, inventive strategies and significant contributions to their communities.

It highlights the pinnacle of small business entrepreneurship and achievement across various sectors.

READ MORE: Plans approved to convert buildings off A339 into farm shop and cafe

Cobbs was founded in 2007 (Image: Cobbs Farm Co. Ltd) Tom Newey, CEO of Cobbs Farm Co. Ltd., said: "We are honoured to be named a finalist in the Lloyds Bank Small to Medium Sized Business of the Year Award.

"This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team.

"We are committed to delivering the highest quality products and services to our customers and making a positive impact in our community."

Since its launch in 2007, Cobbs has developed from a minor start-up to a blossoming business, catering to communities and employing more than 180 staff.

Cobbs had a farm shop in Worting Road, Basingstoke, but this was closed in May 2023, but plans are afoot for a new store at old Woodgarston Farm, off the A339.

Cobbs has been lauded for its innovative stance on food retailing, excellent customer service, and robust commitment to sustainability and community engagement.

The winners of the Lloyds Bank Small to Medium Sized Business of the Year Award will be revealed at an awards ceremony on November 12 at The Grosvenor Hotel in London.

SEE MORE: Farm shop which has been open for more than 10 years to close its doors

Cobbs employs more than 180 staff (Image: Cobbs Farm Co. Ltd) The event will draw top entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and community members to honour the accomplishments of small businesses nationwide.

Mr Newey said: "We look forward to the awards ceremony and are excited about the opportunity to connect with other inspiring businesses.

"Being recognised alongside such a talented group of companies is an incredible honour."

To know more about Cobbs Farm Co. Ltd., visit cobbsfarmshops.co.uk or follow them on Instagram: @cobbsfarmshops.

Cobbs, a multi-site farm shop operator, was established from a passion for providing quality food with provenance to customers, along with offering a platform to the vast number of artisan producers in the UK.

Since its inauguration in 2007, the company has been a leader in the farm shop industry, renowned for its inventive solutions, focus on quality and commitment to excellence.

The Lloyds Bank Small to Medium Sized Business of the Year Award commemorates the accomplishments of small businesses across the United Kingdom.

The awards acknowledge remarkable entrepreneurs and businesses that showcase brilliance in innovation, growth, and community contribution.