Category Archives: Shop Monthly Update

September Shop News

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As the seemingly unstoppable tide of “artificial intelligence” sweeps over the world, the Abbotts Ann Village Shop remains a bastion of humanity.

During the Village Fete the door of the shop was wide open to those from near and far, a sanctuary of refreshment for weary wanderers; a friendly corner in a dark, vast universe. We had an even more successful year than previously. Human or non-human (dogs and alpacas included), well done to all who contributed.

Refurbished shop signpost

We welcome new regular volunteers Kate and Tamsin, and it’s been great having Jill kindly helping out whilst she’s staying in the village. They have been making waves providing some youthful energy to the atmosphere (not that it was in short supply) and have been diligently dealing with every aspect of daily shop duties.

We are always in need of new volunteers; you don’t need to be based in the Village either. Feel free to ask in the shop for more info! Alas, we are not accepting alpaca applications (they have a reputation for eating on the job).

The keen-eyed amongst you may still not have noticed the incredible workmanship on fixing the shop sign, damage to which was a slight thorn in the front of the shop. The split in the wood would prove no match for the joinery skills of Adam Rose (assisted by Steve Randall). We join together in thanking him.

New freezer units – with Mud Pie shelf

The summer heatwaves may be lapsing, but who doesn’t love a cheeky choc chip ice cream under some overcast clouds? Maybe some moreish Mud Pies under more frequent grey skies? Pop on down to peruse our produce, chill out with a coffee and some chit chat, or marvel at the multitudes of our considerable confectionery section. Perhaps some marshmallow for a marvelous fellow? There’s a new flavour of Tunnock’s Teacakes for the dark chocolate dilettante.

Face to face interaction will always remain a core part of village life; whatever may be going on in the world your local Village Shop is the place to go, the place to be seen and the place to remind yourself that good still exists in this world.

Henry Flood – Tuesday Baker

July 2026 Shop Update

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Quite understandably, you may well think that supporting the shop means paying a premium price. In fact, whilst we do stock plenty of items that fall under the treat category, you’ll also find lots of very competitive offerings.

So in the freezer cabinet, for example, alongside our popular By Ruby range of ready meals you’ll find inexpensive cottage pies, fish fingers and chips, to name just a few. Plus frozen pizzas for under £3 (we’re trying out different brands to find one that hits the sweet spot of taste and price).

In the fridge, as well as Chalkstream trout and local cooked meats, there are two shop-baked sausage rolls for a pound. Also freshly baked every day are our almond and plain croissants (the latter costing just £1.05), pains au chocolat and baguettes.

We have a good selection of wines for under a tenner, and half a dozen eggs will set you back just £1.88.

With plenty more warm weather on the way (we hope), our well-stocked ice cream chest contains plenty of popular treasures, that can be washed down with a soft drink from the fridge. Last but by no means least, the coffee from our new machine is gaining a growing reputation.

In summary, with the cost of living continuing to rise, we always strive to deliver value for money, and to strike a balance with the products we carry, making the best possible use of our finite shelf space. And with petrol prices soaring, choosing us over a drive to a big supermarket can save you more than just time.

If there’s anything new you’d like us to stock, do let us know. We’ll never use that tired old cliché “There’s no call for it”, because if you’re asking for it, then clearly there is!

Our awning has now been put back in position, with some stronger brackets attaching it to the wall.

Finally, we were terribly sad to hear of the passing of our dear friend Anne Kelly. Anne had been a shop volunteer for many years, with Sunday mornings her particular domain, that she ruled with great efficiency, dedication and friendliness. Our sincere condolences to Anne’s family.

The Shop Team