Why did we decide to do the Farm and Deli Show?

Back in December, head Chimps Andy & Laura discussed with the team the possibility of Two Chimps running a stall at this event. We all agreed it was the perfect opportunity to spread the love of awesome coffee and branch out our suppliers across the UK.

Deciding to do this was the easy part, but constructing the stall was a challenge we were ready to take on. We meticulously planned every detail, from concealed storage to a coffee brewing station and ample shelf space to display our retail boxes.

Big monkey hugs to Trevor, our resident handyman, and dad to Andy. Together, they worked out the logistics of our selected space and how we could organise it. Once the blueprints were created, all that was left was to start building our display crates (easier said than done!)

How did it work?

The day before the event opened, Andy and Laura filled up the Two Chimps van and headed to the NEC. Following Trevor’s instructions, they seamlessly constructed the crates until they were perfect! After heading back to Oakham for the night, they were up bright and early and got back on the road to finalise the set-up.

The boxes were dotted around the shelving, alongside photos of our wonderful coffee farmers and customer testimonials. To ensure the coffee tasted top-notch, Andy and Laura tested out the coffee machine with their first coffee of the day before the doors opened at 10 a.m.

Our stand was in the section full of other amazing independent businesses, and by the end, they had organised a trading system that went something like this: cake for a cup of coffee? Big shout out to Cakehead for giving the whole team some incredible bakes (we are still arguing over who gets that last lemon blondie!)

The general tasks were split between Andy and Laura, and we were so grateful that Phil stepped in to help with the front-of-house side, as Andy was side-tracked to barista duties. Everyone wanted a cup of Two Chimps!

We recently launched our trade website, where wholesalers can seamlessly log and place orders rather than having to ring or email the roastery. This proved as a huge asset, and this event was the ideal way to kickstart the online ordering process. We even had a nifty tablet on a stand where people were able to check out what we do, whilst the team were busy chatting to other people.

Would we go back?

When the last day came around, we were blown away by all the incredible businesses we spoke to. From garden centres, cafés and independent stores, there was such variation in potential new partnerships, and we look forward to expanding the troop soon.

So, would we go back? Well, we might as well spill the beans now! We’ve already booked to return in April 2025! We had such a blast, and we are so excited to have another great experience next spring. Mark your calendars for the 7^th-9^th of April 2025, stand C259.