Dike’s of Stalbridge to treble in size

11/02/08

From the Blackmore Vale Magazine, 2006

Work has started on a new independent supermarket in Stalbridge that will be three times the size of the existing one.

Set to open next year, contractors Roc of Yeovil moved in last week to start on the first phase of building work, demolition of outbuildings and the house next door to the existing Dike and Son grocery store.

The family-owned business has spent four years trying to get the project off the ground.

The plans involve converting the exiting frontage into two small shops and housing, with the new supermarket and level car park at the rear.

As part of the scheme, Bellway Homes will be building a mixed development of 25 houses with access from Barrow hill, due for completion in 2008.

Owner William Dike said: “It will be a much bigger supermarket, encompassing a coffee shop, more serve-over counters and a decent size deli area.

“We all face competition and our customers have been extremely loyal to us. We feel it is only right to do some serious investing in the future, to give them more choice. We need to keep up with the times.”

He added that they recognised that customers now wanted good quality local food. The supermarket already regularly stocks produce from local sources, including organic vegetables grown in Henstridge. He said: “We would like to buy more food from local suppliers – that’s the plan.”

Stalbridge unusual in that it is the only town in North Dorset without a large supermarket chain presence, and there is enormous support for Dike’s among Stalbridge residents.

The existing shop will stay open for the entire duration of the supermarket building programme, which should be completed in autumn 2007.