Totton business The Box of Cheese to showcase New Forest products
CHEESES sourced and produced in the New Forest will be the central focus of a new online business launched by Totton turophile Andy Bryant.
With support from his wife and daughters, cheese lover Andy recently launched The Box of Cheese, an online delivery service selling artisan cheese gift boxes, subscriptions and bespoke offerings for special occasions and celebrations.
Andy, who has worked in the industry for many years, said: “I love cheese – great cheese, proper cheese, cheese hand-made with love and care on the farm. Cheese made to ancient recipes or new, exciting cheese created by young cheese-makers.”
The online shop sells some of the finest artisan cheeses available in the South of England, with a special focus on New Forest produce. Andy says he hopes to showcase small independent producers who invest their expertise and energy into creating a fantastic product.
He said: “There are some amazing producers making great cheeses, virtually on our doorstep on the edge of the New Forest.
“I also work closely with local wholesalers to source some of the finest artisan cheeses from southern England. In this way, we will not only showcase some of this country’s best products but also minimise the miles they are travelling.”
The Local Box – available for £25 as a one off purchase or monthly subscription – features Old Winchester, Rosary Dazel Ash goats cheese, Dorset Blue Vinney and Francis, a washed rind cheese produced in Landford.
Andy has also put together a special box for vegetarian cheese lovers, featuring Ashmore, Pave Cobble, Barkham Blue and Light Oak Smoked.
“Traditionally, cheese is produced using rennet, which is animal based,” he said. “Vegetarian cheeses are made using a microbial or plant based ingredient, and taste just as delicious.”
As well as trying to reduce food miles by sourcing the products as locally as possible, Andy has made a conscious effort to use plastic free recyclable and compostable packaging where possible.
“I have always cared about the world I live in and I am conscious that the decisions I make will affect our environment and our futures,” he said.
“The only plastic you will find in the cheese boxes is the reusable and recyclable ice packs supplied by an eco-friendly company. Even the boxes come from sustainable resources from an employee-owned business.”
The Box of Cheese is very much a family operation, with Andy receiving huge support from his wife Claire and two daughters to get everything up and running. They have been involved in the creation of the ‘cheese room’ in their house and deliveries to customers, as well as posting leaflets. Andy’s eldest daughter even created the website and designed the logo.
To find out more visit www.theboxofcheese.co.uk
