We love our catch-ups with suppliers, giving them a chance to tell their stories about how their businesses came to be and what it is that makes them so great. We feel so lucky to have them all on our doorsteps and New Forest Shortbread is no exception.
From cr-humble beginnings
New Forest Shortbread started life from creator Tracy Thew’s kitchen table and she has been making shortbread for family and friends for more than 50 years. She was often told how much her shortbread was enjoyed and asked to share her recipe. Finally in 2015, Tracy decided she would start baking for others too.
New Forest Shortbread was born!
Today, Tracy has a bakery and creates all the New Forest Shortbread collections from Burley Rails Cottage – originally a woodman’s cottage that was built in 1811. The stunning surroundings inspired Tracy to redesign the packaging with “tear off and keep” cards, to allow others to keep a memento of the Forest with them.
Beautiful creations
For fans of the Forest shortbread, you will have noticed Tracy’s packaging features beautiful illustrations of the various flora and fauna visitors might see during their stay in the New Forest. These are all created by local artist Will Drew, and are accompanied by notes and local information about the illustrations, as well as the Forest itself.
Despite the striking packaging, sustainability remains at the heart of everything Tracy does.
“We are passionate about the New Forest and inspired by the nature we have all around us – so it’s really important we keep control of the environmental aspect of our product” she said. “That’s why New Forest Shortbread ranges are sealed in recyclable bags and biodegradable boxes, on the day they are baked. All packaging is sustainable and widely recyclable.
A Welcome addition
Environmental pledges run through the veins of many businesses, including our own here at Welcome Stores, and local suppliers are a key part of lowering our carbon footprint. It reduces greenhouse emissions by limiting the number of miles any products have to travel. Plus, we see the benefit of supporting our local economy which in turn is vital for bringing jobs and growth to our communities.
“We love to work alongside the Welcome Stores team who are passionate about local products” Tracy added. “There are loads of small businesses in the New Forest and it’s a great chance for residents and visitors to sample, what we view, to be some of the best products on the market.”
Award winning creations
And indeed, Tracy is not wrong. Being proud winners of 3 Great Taste Awards, it’s easy to see how we have some of the best products on offer right here on the South Coast.
“Our All Butter Original won 1-star in 2022, Earl Grey flavoured won 1-star in 2023 and Rosemary flavoured New Forest Shortbread won 2-stars in 2023!” Tracy said.
“We have an extensive range of flavours and work on improving our recipes all the time, so we offer something for everyone’s taste.”
New Forest Shortbread is in stock at your local Welcome store.
For more information head to https://www.newforestshortbread.co.uk/
