A family butcher’s name which has been linked with Spalding for more than a century is about to disappear.
T Law and Sons has been sold to Simpson Butchers, which wants to carry out a £150,000 refit of the Hall Place shop.
The aim is to attract more lunchtime customers by adding a range of takeaway baguettes and sandwiches to the current snack fare of sausage rolls and pork pies.
The hope is to create a new shop front with decorated windows and an automatic sliding door. Counters either side of the shop would serve fresh meat and cooked meat.
The current business, which was started by Tommy Law, has been present in Spalding for more than 100 years and the Hall Place shop was established in 1918.
For brothers Peter and Simon Law, who are fourth generation partners in the business and have worked in it since their schooldays, it’s a big moment.
Peter (56), who will remain with the new business, is currently working seven days a week but will take a lesser role in the new set-up.
Simon (46) has had one hip replacement operation this year and is awaiting another next month. He wants to leave the trade to endulge his interest in providing racing tips to a friend’s website.
For the pair of them, the offer from Simpson Butchers – which has shops in Sleaford, Heckington, Lincoln and Stamford – came at the right time.
Peter (56) said: “I’ve known Gary (Simpson) for a number of years and I’ve done a deal with him.
“I’m excited by what we’re going to be doing here and I’m looking forward to it.”
Selling the business comes just three years after the shop had a £100,000 refit.
Peter added: “We’re not selling because we are not making any money, we are selling due to health issues and age.
“I don’t want to be working seven days a week but I’m not planning on leaving the business for a number of years.”
Simon is into his last few days working at the shop.
He said: “I’ve come to know a lot of people through the shop and I regard them as friends as well as customers.
“But I just fancied a change and I certainly won’t miss getting up at 5am!”
All other staff will continue with the new business.
The refit plans for the shop, which is in a conservation area, are being considered by South Holland District Council.
T Law and Sons’ former shop in Winsover Road is leased to pizza chain Domino’s.
