Sausages on standby

New meat vending machine opens in Surrey Farm

A Surrey farm in Cranleigh is making it easier than ever for residents to shop locally, with a new meat vending machine.

Ivelle Farm has installed the vending machine in a converted shipping container, stocked with frozen beef, lamb, and pork. Giving the community direct access to farm-fresh meat 7 days a week, from 9am to 6pm.

Run by fourth-generation farmer Alec Clouting, the new venture aims to bring people closer to where their food comes from, while helping the family farm adapt to a challenging agricultural climate.

Alec was able to purchase the shipping container, commercial freezer and fending machine thanks to funding from the Surrey Economic Growth Fund.

From farm to fork

Most meat from Ivelle Farm is sold wholesale to livestock markets and then re-sold to supermarkets. But selling the meat directly to consumers gives the farmers more control – and more of the profits.

What’s more, it keeps people connected with food producers. Alec says: “I am a big believer of people being in touch with where their food comes from, for the local community to be able to come to the farm where it comes from and get it direct.”

And the impact extends beyond one family’s enterprise. The initiative supports a local butcher and abattoir, creating a network of rural businesses working together.

He says: “The benefits go further than just us, and it is about supporting other local businesses.”

Farming and the Economic Growth Fund

Ivelle Farm is one of several rural businesses to benefit from the Surrey Economic Growth Fund.

Alec said: “I’m very grateful for the opportunity the Economic Growth Fund has provided me with. And doubled up with the support from the team at Business Surrey, it’s really helped get the project off the ground and build a vision for the future.

So next time you’re passing through Cranleigh, keep an eye out – your weekly shop might just be waiting in a vending machine.

If you are a Surrey farmer or rural business looking for support to diversify, get in touch with our team of experts via our Business Support Form.