The Blonde Beet in Stamford named Best New Start-Up at the Rutland & Stamford Mercury Business Awards 2022

A business born in the pandemic was named Best New Start-Up at the Mercury Business Awards 2022.

The Blonde Beet in Stamford was created by Jo Kemp who began cooking takeaway, plant-based meals from home to keep occupied in lockdown.

In 2021 she took the leap to move into a premises in St Paul’s Street and since then has seen the business grow.

Jo said: “I wasn’t expecting to win the award at all.

“There are lots of other successful companies and we are still relatively new.

“Since starting the business, the response from everyone has been lovely.

“We see customers day in and day out and have built a community.”

Buy photos from the awards here

Jo’s husband Nick has also played an integral role in creating the business, while in a full-time job.

Jo said: “During the judging it gave us a good opportunity to sit down and look back at the past 18 months.

“It allowed us to take a step back and realise what we have achieved.”

Keeping the business as sustainable as possible, Jo’s aim was for plant-based and vegetarian food to be appealing to everyone.

She said: “For me if someone leaves who is not a vegetarian but is excited to come back, that really motivates me.”

As well as serving seasonal food, Jo works with other local businesses and groups to hold dinner parties.

The Blonde Beet was also named runner-up in the Environmental Champion category.

Jo’s passion for the environment goes back to well before she began the business as she helped create and cook for Second Helpings - a Stamford-based community project aimed at preventing food going to landfill.

Presenting the award, Kally Singh of sponsors Hegarty Solicitors described Jo as having a ‘clear vision and aim for the business’.

He added: “There are a considerable number of good dining options in the area and to continue to strive in the hospitality market, being able to adapt and change accordingly, shows their determination to succeed.”

The other finalists in the category were recruitment firm HRG Associates, based in Oakham, and Wittering-based virtual assistant agency Yasministration.