A familiar face in Calne is celebrating a major milestone this summer, as Robert Merrick marks 20 years in the outside catering business.
To celebrate the occasion, Robert threw a party at the weekend – bringing together friends, family, colleagues, and long-time customers who’ve been part of his journey over the past two decades. The celebrations were held at the Talos Art Gallery and Sculpture Garden at Broads Green Farm, Heddington,
Known across Calne not just for his culinary ventures, but also for his civic service - having served two terms as Calne Town Mayor during the coronavirus years - Robert’s entrepreneurial journey began back in 2005, when he opened his very first café in a little alley in Trowbridge.
“At 9am on the 4th of July 2005 I opened my first café,” Robert said. “Every day since then, we’ve aimed to offer fresh, good food with excellent customer service. Through that time, we’ve made great friends. I certainly couldn’t have done it without my dedicated, hardworking team — and they wouldn’t be able to do it without our wonderful customers. Some of them have been with us since that very first day.”
Over the years, Robert has become a staple of the town’s hospitality scene. His businesses have included Patch of Blue, and several Maddisons cafés in Calne, Trowbridge and Melksham. In 2009, he opened Calne’s first Italian restaurant - The Olive Tree at Beach Terrace - which went on to win Best Italian in Wiltshire and Best New Business.
At one point in 2010, his team were running five outlets alongside the outside catering service. Today he continues to run The Farmhouse Café in Phelps Parade alongside his outside catering businesses which recently expanded again with the acquisition of Mrs B’s Caring Catering Company in Frome earlier this year.
“It’s a great fit for us and we welcome the dedicated team to our family,” Robert said at the time.
As Calne residents will attest, Robert Merrick’s success story is one of community spirit, hard work, and a passion for great food. Here’s to the next 20 years.
Picture 1: Robert with Front of House Operator, Kiarra
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