A small business tucked under the old Broadheath viaduct has been quietly expanding its reach beyond hampers.
EZ Hampers, which opened on the banks of the Bridgewater Canal after starting as a lockdown venture, has evolved into a cafe and events space that's drawing regulars from across the area with its focus on homemade food, locally sourced drink and community activities.
Owner Lisa Storey, whose background in nursing and social care shaped her vision for the business, says EZ has enjoyed a hugely successful 2025 so far, helped by the unusually good weather.
"We've expanded our events significantly," she says. "We now have summer activities and winter programmes. We already have our dates set for wreath-making at Christmas."
Over the next few weeks, residents can attend a crochet or ceramics workshop, enjoy a themed food night, watch a classic movie or join the popular monthly comedy night.
The approach seems to be working. Regular customers have emerged from the various workshops and social events, with some forming friendships that extend beyond the shop itself.
EZ Hampers - (pronounced ‘Ez’ after Lisa’s daughter Erin) - operates next door to Kickback Coffee in what's become a partnership rather than competition.
"We do filter coffee here, so we always tell people if you want a latte, go next door. Likewise, they’ll send people to us if they want a Coke or ice cream.”
While the cafe serves an extensive range of draught beer, wine and ice creams alongside locally-sourced products, the shop side of the business continues to stock items from regional makers including flowers, skincare, jewellery and spirits from Manchester-based producers. There’s also a curated assortment of locally created - and very affordable - artwork.
Behind the scenes, changes are afoot, and the shop will be closing on Mondays and Tuesdays to allow for planning and development work. "We've got big changes coming," Storey reveals, though she's keeping details under wraps for now.
Current opening hours are Wednesday to Sunday 9am-6pm, although EZ stays open until 10pm from Thursday to Saturday. It’s increasingly popular as a venue for private parties, and the original hamper business continues to thrive from a separate unit across the road.
For Storey, who previously worked with children with disabilities in Birmingham, the social aspect remains central to the operation. "People are looking for that regular connection, and they know they can always have a chat here," she said.
EZ Hampers, Arch 3, Viaduct Rd, Altrincham WA14 5DU. Visit ezhampers.co.uk or follow @ezhampers on Instagram or @EZH on Facebook.
