Hockey’s Farm Shop Named Business of the Year at the Brilliance in Business Awards
When the New Forest Business Partnership gathered for this year’s Brilliance in Business Awards at Brockenhurst College, Hockey’s Farm Shop was honoured to be recognised twice- winning Business of the Year and receiving the award for Contribution to the Community. For a small, independent, family-run farm shop in the heart of the New Forest, this moment represents far more than a celebration. It marks a meaningful milestone in our story and affirms the values that have shaped Hockey’s since the beginning.
A Landmark Moment for an Independent New Forest Business
Being named Business of the Year reflects years of steady development and a consistent commitment to quality. Although Hockey’s has grown and evolved with new spaces, an expanded team, and a broader collection of local products,our purpose has never changed. We exist to support local producers, to offer the very best regional food and drink, and to create a destination where people feel welcomed and connected.
This award acknowledges the continued investment made into the farm, including improvements to our facilities, the evolution of The Vinery, our growing network of regional suppliers, the ongoing development of our butchery and cafe, and the constant attention given to animal welfare and sustainable practices. Together, these elements define what customers experience when they visit Hockey’s and what we strive to deliver every day.
Celebrating Our Contribution to the Community
Winning the award for Contribution to the Community is especially meaningful. Hockey’s has always been more than a shop, it is a place where connections are built, local businesses collaborate, and people feel part of something familiar. Our involvement in community events, partnerships with New Forest organisations, work with charities, and support for regional makers and producers all stem from a belief that a rural business should enhance the life of the area it belongs to.
This recognition highlights the positive impact that independent businesses can have when they remain rooted in their surroundings and continue to engage openly and meaningfully with those they serve.
The Team Behind the Achievement
No award is won by a business alone, it is earned through the dedication of the people within it. Every member of our team contributes to the experience customers enjoy, whether preparing food in the Farmyard Cafe, assisting shoppers, curating products in The Vinery, managing the butchery counter or caring for the farm itself.
Their professionalism, warmth, and pride in their work ensure that Hockey’s maintains the high standards expected of us. This double win shines a light on their collective commitment and the immense effort behind the scenes.
A Community That Makes Everything Possible
Hockey’s would not be what it is without the loyalty of our customers and the wider New Forest community. The support shown by regular visitors, the excitement from those discovering Hockey’s for the first time, and the engagement across our online channels all shape the direction of the farm. Every comment, every visit, every recommendation, they each play a role in the growth of the business.
These awards belong as much to the community as they do to us.
Proud to Stand Alongside Exceptional New Forest Businesses
The Brilliance in Business Awards showcase the strength and diversity of the New Forest economy. To be recognised among such impressive independent businesses, attractions, digital innovators and hospitality providers is both humbling and inspiring. It reinforces the importance of collaboration within the region and highlights what can be achieved when organisations work together to champion the New Forest as a vibrant place to live, work and visit.
Looking Ahead with Ambition
This recognition arrives at an exciting time for Hockey’s. Our focus remains on enhancing the customer experience, expanding seasonal and local product ranges, strengthening digital access through the development of our online shop, and ensuring sustainability continues to guide decision-making from energy use to waste reduction and responsible sourcing.
We are committed to supporting more regional suppliers, diversifying events, and continuing to evolve in ways that benefit both our customers and the wider community.
Business of the Year is not an endpoint; it is a benchmark, a reminder of what we have achieved and an encouragement to keep progressing.
A Sincere Thank You
We extend deep thanks to the New Forest Business Partnership, the judging panel, and Brockenhurst College for hosting an inspiring event. Most importantly, we thank our customers, suppliers, partners and supporters. Your trust, loyalty and enthusiasm made this achievement possible.
Hockey’s Farm Shop will continue to uphold the values that led us here: authenticity, community, quality and care. Winning Business of the Year is an extraordinary chapter and we look forward to building on it with the same dedication that has shaped every step of our journey so far.
