The company behind the new £65 million Tatton Services development on the M56 is inviting local farmers, bakers, growers and craftspeople to help shape its farmshop and butchery.
Westmorland Farmshop & Co, the family-owned business behind the popular Tebay and Gloucester Services, has launched a search for independent producers within 30 miles of the new site, which is currently under construction near Bowdon Roundabout.
The company has committed to working with at least 70 local producers, offering businesses across Altrincham, Cheshire and the surrounding area the chance to sell their products to motorists using the M56.
As part of the initiative, called Become a Tatton Maker, an informal Meet the Buyer event will take place at Groobarb's Wild Farm in High Legh on Thursday 19 November.
Running from 10am to 3pm, the event will give local businesses the opportunity to meet Westmorland's buying team, showcase their products and explore potential supply arrangements.
The company is particularly interested in locally produced food and drink, including bread, cakes, confectionery, snacks, soft drinks, tea, coffee and deli products.
It is also seeking farmers and growers who can supply seasonal fruit and vegetables, meat and dairy products.
Finding a named local dairy supplier is a priority, with Westmorland hoping to source milk for both the farmshop and the thousands of teas and coffees expected to be served at the new services each day.
Local artists, designers and craftspeople are also being encouraged to come forward, with the company looking for everything from jewellery, ceramics and candles to clothing, textiles, artwork and housewares.
Dan Pearson, Commercial Director at Westmorland, said: "At Westmorland, our ethos is about celebrating the small and special, which we've been doing for over 50 years.
"We want the unique, the interesting and the joyful, products made with care by people who have a story to tell.
"This is a chance to build something rooted in its surroundings, where customers can discover the area through what they eat, drink and take home."
He added: "With millions of motorists passing along the M56, Tatton Services offers local producers the opportunity to reach a much wider audience.
"We want to build lasting relationships, helping our producers grow as we grow."
The £65 million development is being delivered through a partnership between Westmorland and the Tatton Estate, with Westmorland holding an 80% stake.
Construction began earlier this year on the site between Junctions 7 and 8 of the M56, near Millington and Rostherne.
The new services, which are due to open in spring 2028, are expected to create more than 400 jobs.
Like Westmorland's existing motorway services at Tebay in Cumbria and Gloucester, the development will focus on locally sourced food and independent producers rather than the traditional motorway service station model.
Annette McDonald, Director of Sustainability and Partnerships at the Tatton Estate, said: "We are surrounded by exceptional food, drink and artisan producers across Cheshire, from dairy farms and cheesemakers, brewers, bakers and artists.
"The Tatton Services project has always had a special place in our hearts because of the opportunities it will create for local producers and the benefits it will bring to our communities and neighbours.
"We want local producers to feel part of this from the beginning and help shape a place that does Cheshire proud."
Westmorland says it will also offer support to smaller businesses, including guidance on food accreditations and help with bringing products to market.
The Meet the Buyer event takes place at Groobarb's Wild Farm, Mag Lane, High Legh, WA16 0AA, on Thursday 19 November, from 10am to 3pm.
Businesses interested in attending can find out more and register their interest at tattonservices.com/become-a-producer.
