Start-up business award for café with ‘ultimate brunch destination’ goal

The start-up business which is on a mission to become the “ultimate brunch destination” in the region has won a Powys Business Award after rapidly exceeding its initial goals.

Greenhouse Cafe & Kitchen at Garthmyl, between Newtown and Welshpool, collected the Start Up Business Award, sponsored by EvaBuild, at the Powys Business Awards held at Dering Lines, Brecon.

Organised by Mid Wales Manufacturing Group (MWMG), the awards showcase the diverse range of successful enterprises within Powys.

Lewis King, owner of Greenhouse Cafe & Kitchen, said: “It’s an absolute honour to win this award which recognises the staff for all the work they put in. I’d like to thank Marcus and Clare King without whom this would not have been possible.

“The award means the world to me because I have sacrificed a lot and it is recognition for what we have achieved since we opened.”

Lewis launched Greenhouse Cafe & Kitchen at King’s Nurseries in 2022 when he was 22 to fill a gap in the market and introduce a vibrant cafe culture. The café has a trained workforce of 17, including three full-time kitchen staff.

The business is focused on using quality, locally sourced ingredients from Powys and Shropshire and the purpose-built café benefits from its location at King’s Nurseries. It’s growth and evolution have enhanced both businesses, attracting younger people and increasing trade and tourism.

The food and drink offerings are designed to surpass customer expectations, featuring freshly prepared, hot and cold dishes made with local, seasonal produce and including vegan and dietary specific dishes.

Originally aiming to serve 75 customers during low season, the cafe is so popular that it served 241 meals in one day over May Bank Holiday 2024 and it has hosted four evening events, proving its versatility and potential as an events venue.

A focus on quality, teamwork and staff development maintains high standards, delivers excellent customer service and earns rave reviews.

“By adhering to a well-researched business plan, exceeding initial goals, focusing on customer needs and maintaining robust financial controls, we are well-positioned for continued growth and success,” said Lauren Jones, marketing officer.

“We aim to expand our customer base, menu offerings and branch out further to really carve our spot within the area as the ultimate brunch destination.”

The judges commended Lewis for his vision, creativity and commitment to quality which have made Greenhouse Cafe & Kitchen stand out in a competitive marketplace. They said the award celebrates rapid success and bright future of the business.

Runners-up were Abermule Inn and Stashed Products Ltd, both based in Abermule.