Albion Farm Shop future secured by family handover
Albion Farm Shop and cafe in Saddleworth has been transferred to Laura Hirst's company LJ Albion & Sons Ltd after her parents David and Annette Hirst's company Hirst Family Trading Ltd faced potential liquidation. The business includes the farm shop, cafe, event space The Turkey Shed, and a new website. All staff have chosen to remain, and the business continues to promote locally sourced British produce. Laura Hirst, the fifth generation of Albion Farm, will run the business with partner Jac and their two young sons. The transfer comes after decades of challenges including Foot & Mouth, BSE, recession, Covid, and rising operational costs.