'We'll meat again!' Outpouring of support as family butcher leaves store
Customers have backed a beloved butcher who has left a store in Compton for the last time.
RJ Hipkiss & Sons have been at Spar, Bridgnorth Road, Compton for ten years but had to vacate the premises yesterday (Sunday).
Butcher Richard Hipkiss told his customers on social media and received hundreds of messages of support by customers.
He said: "It is with mixed emotion that I inform you of us leaving the Spar Compton. Our lease at the Spar Compton was up on December 31.
"We thank all our customers for your loyalty and custom over the 10 years of us operating at the store, and it has been a privilege to serve those of Compton and beyond. Despite the news, we hope you will follow us to our new store."
He added: "In the new year, we will be opening our own new shop! However, the location is yet to be revealed, we will be impossible to miss!
"Despite not having a current opening date, we hope that you will be patient with us, as we will keep you updated on the matter."
Richard told the Express & Star: "It is disappointing but I do not want to be negative about this decision, we are looking to the future."
Customers branded the departure 'a loss' for Compton.
Nikki Joe said: "Your business as been amazing for the community of Compton. People didn’t have to go into town to get the very best quality cuts and you made many people both young and old smile with your outstanding customer service, exemplary knowledge of meat products and best of all the time you took to make sure that everyone who walked through that door had the very best experience."
Helen Dye added: "So sorry you are having to leave the Spar - we will really miss you there - you we’re the reason we went there!"
Linda Bowater added: "What a dreadful loss. Do hope u find new premises soon as you’ll be sadly missed."
And Amanda Millard added: "Gutted that you are moving and hope that your new shop will still be local. We only went in the Spar because of buying your delicious meat so the Spa will be losing our custom."
Richard's wife Abi thanked everyone for their support, she said: "The comments have been so lovely!
"Rich has been a part of Compton all his life having grown up there and working in The Daisy since his teens. He’s built up a lot of friendships through work which he feels so lucky and appreciative of, also your endless support over the years.
"We appreciate the support of you lovely lot and can’t wait to see you in the new place."
The owner of the store Giles Morrell (Director of Compton Retail Ltd) was keen to point out that a new butchery counter would be coming to the store in 2024 - and that's not the only new addition the store will be welcoming.
He said in a statement: "As 2024 begins, we will be welcoming a brand-new butchery counter to the store. In addition to this, we will also be opening a new sandwich, cake and dessert concession, and we hope to welcome new and old customers alike.
"The previous agreement ended on New Year’s Eve, and in early 2023 we offered a number of parties the option to tender for the new deal. This tendering process included, a requirement for improved food hygiene (R J Hipkiss & Sons Ltd currently has a 3), and a keener pricing structure to help people during the cost of living crisis. After a comprehensive review of all bids, including from the previous tenant, we chose a separate bid, as the best option for the store and it’s customers.
"Our new butchery counter should be open within the next two weeks, and there are lots of opening offers and new ranges. We will be bringing more jobs to the area, and hope to serve the community of Compton for many years to come."
