Diary of a Cookshop by Ali and Mel Done Directors of Cook To Perfection, King’s Lynn. You can read Diary of a Cookshop in full in Housewares Magazine. Don't receive the magazine? To find out more click here.

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The Only Way is Cook to Perfection

30/04/2012 14:55:06


There was much excitement in the shop at the beginning of March when we had an unexpected visit from The Only Way Is Essex star James Argent, (Arg). Shut up!!!! While West Norfolk has its share of celebrities that have homes in the area, and are respectfully ignored, Arg caused a local Facebook and Twitter commotion like you wouldn't believe!

At the Town Partnership Meeting AGM, Ali volunteered his services for the town centre management committee for the next 12 months. The same evening, we went to a Let's Talk Shop meeting to discuss the Mary Portas Review with councillors, local traders and other interested parties. I was shocked at the negative way in which some independent retailers turned on local market traders and the privately-owned shopping precinct. I don't think Mary tackled that in her report!

We attended The Housewares Conference & Innovation Awards on March 27 as a Silver winner, and came away with the Gold! In fact, we found the whole day very rewarding, and reassuring. Gary Gordon reaffirmed our own views on high street issues, David Eggison made us believe that a competitive website is achievable alongside bricks and mortar, and Roger Morgan-Grenville pioneered a new found respect for the Chichester carving tray. The whole day was thoroughly thought out right down to the last detail - even the small storage pot of business cards and sweets. Top marks!

After our first month of Sunday opening we reviewed its success, and while we had a couple of Sundays that were quiet (especially Mother's Day), it still reflected a 9% increase in sales. Added to the fact that we've managed to cover most of the cost of staffing Sundays by changing shifts around, it's been an excellent start.

You can read Diary of a Cookshop in full in the April 2012 edition of Housewares Magazine. Don't receive the magazine? To find out more click here.

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