The Little Farm Shed has announced its permanent closure after nearly three years of trading.

The greengrocer grew from a small stall selling eggs and veg to a fully fledged shop in Market Place — the first to graduate from Shepton's retail incubator scheme.

The business moved into 9 Market Place in September 2024 after completing its rent‑free trial at 10 Market Place, where it launched under the support of local charity Interim Spaces.

But in a statement this week, the family confirmed they would not reopen after the winter break.

"An eerily quiet December"

Citing rising costs, reduced footfall, and pressure from supermarkets, the team said a poor December had left them unable to continue:

"We had hoped December would see us through the quieter months of 2026. Sadly, given the current financial climate, we felt it was best not to move forward with our planned renovations."

"Nearly three years of 3am starts, late nights, and long cold days in the shop have taken their toll."

The closure marks a bittersweet end to a business that began as two sisters selling produce to fund a trip to Glastonbury Festival — and went on to become a key part of the town's high street revival.

An incubator success story

The Little Farm Shed was chosen from 27 applicants to lead Shepton Mallet's retail incubator pilot in 2023. The scheme offered nine months' rent-free space, mentoring and a capital grant to help new businesses transition into permanent premises.

After outgrowing its spot at 10 Market Place — a Grade II listed building restored by charity Interim Spaces — the family took on a full lease at number 9.

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