Local Businesses Adapt to Change

For many local companies, lockdown seemed to be the end of business as they knew it. But many have now found new, safer ways of bringing their product to market, while some have reinvented themselves altogether.

As well as continuing to serve the village through its shop, Barkers Bakery have launched an afternoon tea delivery service, bringing a welcome treat into many locked down households.

N&M Wholesale usually supply drinks direct to restaurants and other venues. After this core customer base all but disappeared, they began accepting orders from households throughout the village, often with same-day delivery.

Prevented from running their face-to-face messy play sessions, Cottenham-based Mucky Pups have temporarily moved into home delivery of craft packs to little ones in the village and beyond.

Many other businesses have adapted to the new challenges, with The Chequers reopening as a takeaway-only venue, fitness classes like pilates and Zumba moving online, and King & Co. Solicitors offering a remote service.

And many – like Les Ward, Not Just Baguettes and Cottenham Tyre & Autocentre – have implemented strict safety measures so they can continue supporting the village.

The choices we all make about where to spend our money will make a real difference to these and many other Cottenham-based businesses who are working hard to support residents at this time.