Diversification is child's play for Whitchurch farm

Now one farm in Shropshire has come up with a new way of branching out in the tough market though, with the launch of a children's nursery on the site of a former milking parlour.

After enduring some tough times and challenges within the dairy sector Matt and Vicky Hollins decided to diversify their business and open the nursery on the site of the parlour at Bradley Farm near Whitchurch.

The couple launched Bradley Barns Nursery providing childcare in the surroundings of the working farm, and are preparing for expansion after six months of trading.

Bradley Barns Nursery now employs 14 staff and forecasts turnover to exceed £250,000 this year.

Matt Hollins, owner of Bradley Farm, said: “We invested over £250,000 into a new milking parlour in 2015 when milk prices were strong and anticipated global demand painted a very bright picture.

"Within months milk prices crashed to unforeseen lows which put pressure on our business.

“Vicky is a qualified teacher who has always loved working with children so this just seemed a very natural fit.

"We are passionate about education and child welfare and just can’t wait to come to work every morning.

"We had a blank canvas when we designed the nursery so we have created an environment conducive to quality childcare within an active working farm, allowing children to view the animals from the nursery, experience forest school sessions as we take the classroom outside and appreciate local produce and where food comes from.

"We are registered to take 44 children and plan to double the size of the nursery over the next 3 years as we redevelop further buildings on the farm.

"Running a business is tough with no rest bite and being tied to the business 24 hours a day but the rewards far outweigh the downsides even after working long hours. The joy of seeing my efforts or simply a big smile from one of our children makes it all worthwhile.”

The company was supported by Barclays' local business support specialist Chris Pinder in setting up the business.

Mr Pinder said: “It is essential that we support local businesses not just when the going is good but also when they face difficulties.

"Eighty per cent of customers who undertake the turnaround programme are successful in returning to good health.

"By really understanding the business and issues they have faced, Barclays has been able to support Bradley Farm and the new nursery throughout the diversification process.

"The business now has two revenue streams, the working farm with a herd of over 100 young dairy stock and the addition of the purpose built children’s nursery which caters for children from three months to five years old."