A popular independent café in Nailsworth is celebrating five years in business after growing from a one-person takeaway coffee shop into a thriving community hub.
Opening its doors in August 2021, Willow & Co started life as a predominantly takeaway coffee shop, with owner Sally Norman working alone from Wednesday to Sunday.
Five years later, the business on Wheelwrights Corner has grown significantly, employing around eight members of staff, including her sister Carolyn Hollis.
Reflecting on the milestone, Sally said: “When we opened in August 2021, it was predominantly a takeaway coffee shop and it was just me working from Wednesday to Sunday.
“Five years on, we now have around eight members of staff, which is something I’m incredibly proud of.”
Sally says one of the greatest achievements has been the relationships built with customers over the years.
“We’ve gained so many loyal customers and feel like we know so much about each other’s lives,” she said. “We’ve celebrated some incredible milestones together – babies being born, weddings and so many other life-changing moments. Many of our customers have become friends.”
She added: “We’re so grateful to the community for supporting us over the last five years and helping us create this special little corner in Nailsworth.”
Looking to the future, Sally said the business has plenty more to offer.
“We’re hoping to introduce a couple of savoury options very soon, expand our programme of workshops and we’re also looking at hosting some pop-up events in the future. It’s an exciting time and we’re looking forward to the next chapter.”
As the café marks its fifth anniversary, its journey from a small takeaway coffee shop to a thriving community hub is a testament to the support of local people and the strength of independent business in Nailsworth.
For more information on Willow & Co click HERE
