A BUTCHER shop which has been “a staple” of the community for nearly three decades will soon re-open following an extensive refurbishment.

The Chop Shop Butchery, located in St John’s Way, Corringham, will re-open in November under new owners Sue and Rob Gough, from Stanford-le-Hope, after being closed in early September.

The husband and wife duo took over the business from previous owner, Alan Robinson, who decided to step away from the business after 27 years this August.

Alan will be staying on to act as the shop’s butcher and continue “doing what he loves,” Sue has confirmed.

She said: “A lot of investment, time, and money went into this. Maximum effort is really what’s been put into it.

“It’s quite a staple in Corringham. It’s a bit of a landmark. It would have been a shame to see it go.” 

Staple of community - The shop is beloved by Corringham residents Staple of community - The shop is beloved by Corringham residents (Image: The Chop Shop)

 


“The refurbishment will help keep the shop alive, keep the high street alive and ultimately benefit the business and community.

“It’s hard to look in any direction without seeing the love and support from everybody. It’s been fantastic and really well received.

“Alan’s more than excited to get back to doing what he loves. It’s keeping the art of butchery alive for traditional value. It’s also about bringing it into a new modern era, and making sure it’s welcoming to everyone.”

The revamp, which cost tens of thousands of pounds, will see new flooring put in and new décor for the shop.

Sue added the business is set to re-open on November 7, just in time for Christmas orders, and they cannot wait for the busy period.

The butcher is aiming to provide a high-quality product “across the board” and plans to do this by ensuring their products are “ethically sourced.”

Sue said they will do this by sourcing their products from reputable British farmers, rather than unknown traders from abroad.

She added the store had been slightly altered to suit modern needs, but has kept “nearly the entire team”, including its butchers and shop assistants.

The store plan to hold an event next Saturday, when customers can taste some of its produce and meet the team.