Five years in business: Fresh Café, Warkworth

Gaye Rowland bought Fresh Café in Warkworth in July 2011 and carried on with the wide range of food the previous owner had been offering. She employs a cook, Leona, plus three after school students who help close up. Extra part-timers are taken on over summer. Gaye estimates she works about 55 hours a week in the shop, doing book work and other administration work at night or on weekends.

How has business been over the past five years?
Business has shown steady growth over the years.

What have your learnt?
It’s hard work, very tiring but very rewarding when customers return saying thank you.

In hindsight, would you have done anything differently?
No, not really. We’ve adapted as we’ve gone along. When we started, my husband didn’t see the sense of offering gluten free, but just as well we did because it’s huge. Leona regularly changes the menu options and what’s on offer in the cabinet and on the specials board, and that’s important. Everything is homemade and we cater for all tastes and every appetite, small to large. We’ve made a point of keeping the price competitive.

What keeps you motivated?
Our customers keep us motivated. It’s great to hear their feedback when Leona tries a new recipe and many of these have become favourites. We’re lucky to live and work in such a great community.

What do local businesses need to do to prosper?
Parking and traffic are two of the main issues that spring to mind. Council is talking about a population in Warkworth of 20,000 but the roads are already choked. We have one loading bay in front of the shop but it is constantly being used by shoppers.

Any advice for someone starting a business?
Do your homework, talk to people in the know and don’t start another café! Warkworth needs diversification. There are lots of things missing such as a good men’s shoe shop or a baby and children’s wear shop.

We just want to say a huge thank you to our regulars who continue to support us throughout the year. If you haven’t been in yet, come in and say “hi” and have a browse.

Argyll Angle, Warkworth  | 021 173 3822