Aberfeldy’s ‘Thyme Deli’ named ‘Sustainable Retail Outlet of the Year’

Perthshire Delicatessen & Farmshop Thyme Deli has been named ‘Sustainable Retail Outlet of the Year’ by the Rarebreed Survival Trust Scotland.

Presented at the Royal Highland Show, the award recognises Thyme Deli’s offering of produce from rare-breed, sustainably farmed livestock, its promotion of sustainable, locally-sourced produce, and its support for local suppliers. The Deli adjoins Thyme Bistro and is situated on Errichel Farm, which was recently declared Scotland’s Number 1 Food Tourism location at the high-profile Scottish Thistle Awards.

In addition to Thyme Deli’s own range of chutneys, pickles and preserves created by Chef Patron Paul Newman, the shop also showcases rare and native-breed produce, reared in small herds on Errichel’s pastures. These include Shetland Cows, Large Black Pigs, and Shetland Sheep, used in Paul’s own ready meals. Eggs from Errichel’s free-roaming ‘Scots Dumpy’ hens are sold when available, and a range of food items and gifts from suppliers all over Scotland and further afield is also offered.

Boasting the biggest selection of Cheese, Charcuterie and Mezze available in the local region, Thyme Deli now also offers Scottish Cheese and Scottish Charcuterie Tastings - with participants introduced to some of Scotland’s most-awarded cheese and charcuterie, paired with Deli accompaniments, along with tastings of Wine or Craft Beer if desired.

Launched in the pandemic year of 2020, Thyme Deli soon became the only part of Errichel’s business still allowed to welcome customers, with the team turning its attention to helping Aberfeldy’s ‘Feldy Roo’ initiative, providing free meals for the elderly and those shielding within the community. With the subsequent growth of the Deli, the product range has widened, with the most recent product innovation being ‘bake at home’ Deli pizzas, with hand-stretched bases topped with Scottish artisan cheeses alongside mezze favourites.

Chef Patron Paul Newman said – 'We’re blown away to have won this award for Thyme Deli. We dreamed of opening a Deli and Farmshop for a long time, and when we finally did it, it was non-negotiable that we showcase the importance of sustainably farmed heritage breeds, and support other local suppliers by offering their products at a fair price. Huge thanks to the Trust, our great team, and of course our customers for continuing to support and enjoy what we do’.

For more information about Thyme Deli, visit Errichel.co.uk