If you are living in Lenton it may seem like your world doesn’t extend much beyond the length of Derby Road. From The Ropewalk bar at the top, to University Park campus at the very bottom, the journey up and down Derby Road becomes second nature to us all. As does the daily trip to Sainsbury’s. Situated perfectly in the middle of Derby Road, Sainsbury’s local will undoubtedly have become your go-to place to pick up something for dinner, a sandwich to take to the library or a bottle of something potent for your night out. While I don’t doubt the convenience of having a Sainsbury’s so close to home, it does mean that some of the other local shops are passed by without a second glance.
In fact, there are many interesting local shops on and around Derby Road that you probably have never even heard of, despite them being on your doorstep. I have previously written about the importance of supporting local businesses in an article about the Savoy cinema, which has threatened to close down. Similarly, these local shops need its business running to stay open but people only really hear about them through word of mouth.
Just recently, I heard about Parks Deli from a friend. So I decided to have a look to see what all the fuss is about. The small deli is near the top end of Derby Road and it’s quaint exterior is very inviting. I was immediately drawn in by the gorgeous selection of fresh fruits outside and, inside, more delicious products line the shelves.
I had a chat with the owner, Bob Armitage, to find out about who visits the shop and why more people should check it out.
Opened in 1984, Park Stores has an emphasis on fresh produce, with their sandwich bar and fresh organic bread being the main draw for many customers. The shop is not aimed at any one particular customer. They get business from office workers, students, passers by and residents of The Park, which Bob believes creates a nice mix and keeps every day busy and interesting. At the moment, about a third of Park Stores’ customers are students. When asked what Bob would say to students about his shop to make them come and have a look around, he said, the main misconception people have about delis is that they are more expensive than chain supermarkets. In fact, Park Stores sells many groceries for less than shops like Sainsbury’s, especially fresh fruits and vegetables, which Bob picks up every morning while it’s still dark from the market. Park Stores also stock a wide variety of goods and specialty food that you might not find elsewhere. Bob said that, ideally, he would like to see more students doing their little basket shops in his deli as they can pick up some interesting, fresh and delicious foods for very good value.
The deli’s specialty is their famous sandwich bar, which supposedly provides the perfect hangover cure. You can build your own choosing from different breads and fillings. Get there early if you’re peckish as there are queues out of the door from 12 – 2.30pm most days.
My last question for Bob was what differentiates them from other, larger supermarkets. He said that, in shopping with them, customers are given a really personal service from the bubbly girls that work behind the counter. To me, this sounds much more appealing than getting frustrated at the self service machines telling me to place my item in the bagging area every three seconds.
So next time you are about to pop into Sainsbury’s, why not head slightly further afield and see what Park Stores might be able to offer you. If you like what you see, spread the word and don’t be afraid to try something new!
Photo sources
http://www.park-stores.co.uk/i…
Edited by Ili Mustafa