A new large countryside, equestrian, and pet store will open its doors to the public today (Saturday 26 April) on a busy commuter route in Hampshire.
Shedfield Country Stores Limited will offer a comprehensive range of equestrian, pet, country and rural lifestyle products in a 650sqm retail destination located at Shedfield Equestrian Centre on Botley Road between Southampton and Portsmouth.
The new shop will be officially opened at 10.30am by the Mayor of Winchester, Councillor Russell Gordon-Smith while Dr Nick Thompson, a specialist vet from Bath known as the HolisticVet, will be answering questions around equine and canine health and nutrition in the store from 2.30pm.
The business, which was formerly named Shedfield Equestrian Tack Shop and was founded by Chris and Sandy Collins almost 50 years ago, was acquired by their son Wayne and his partner Aimee Cross last year.
Wayne and Aimee own Raw Pet Food Pantry, a specialist pet food business, and decided they wanted to bring the two companies – and other brands and suppliers – under one roof.
Bucking the trend
“We’re incredibly proud to be opening a physical store at a time when so many are closing or moving online,” said Aimee.
“For us, it’s about creating a true destination – somewhere customers can browse, ask questions, and experience the quality of what they’re buying, all in a welcoming countryside setting.
“Being located in an area that’s awash with horses and dogs and bringing our established businesses, Raw Pet Food Pantry and Shedfield Country Stores together under one roof, means we’re cross-pollinating two incredibly loyal customer bases and reaching new ones too.
“Our experience to date is that customers come to us for face-to-face consultations and advice – whether it’s for their dog, cat, or horse – and that personal connection is something we’re proud to continue offering.
“There’s simply nothing like our store in the local area, and we believe that by combining traditional values with a modern retail experience, we’re filling a gap that people are genuinely excited about.”
Also inside the flagship store will be a dog groomer, equestrian feed and supplies and country clothing and footwear. There is also a gift department and a coffee shop and bakery.
Brands available to purchase include Hunter, Musto, Premier Equine, Baleno, Aigle, Weatherbeeta and Ariat.
Changing times
“After dedicating 46 years to building this business, it fills me with immense pride to see Wayne and Aimee take it forward with such passion and vision,” said Chris Collins, former owner of Shedfield Equestrian Tack Shop.
“The new store is an exciting evolution, bringing together equestrian, pet, and country living under one roof. I have no doubt they will continue to serve our loyal customers well while introducing a whole new generation to the heart of what we’ve built.”
Shedfield Country Stores can be found at Shedfield Equestrian Centre on Botley Road in Southampton. The doors open at 10.30am today (Saturday 26 April).
Images © Shedfield Country Stores.
