August saw Meat N16 complete its thirteenth year. It’s remarkable. We opened here, on Stoke Newington Church Street, in 2011. Where have the years gone? From an idea, and a wish, from two local guys, the shop was born. We remind ourselves that we set up to open on the Thursday morning, but on Wednesday evening, as we stood around admiring our new venture, a local put his head through the door and asked what we were doing. I sold him a Sirloin Steak and we have always claimed to have opened a day early! It has been such a great journey. Only Troy, who is now at Meat N6, and I still remain from day one. My business partner, Richard is still with me, but that’s it. As I have said many times, any retail business will only succeed if the customers want it and use it. The Stokey people certainly want their local shops. I am proud that we can boast many customers who have been coming since day one, and their interest and enthusiasm is intoxicating. Whilst I still love every day of being here, I am too old to imagine still being here in 13 more years, so I am going to remember the first 13 fondly, and enjoy as many more as we can fit in.

As was widely tipped, and greatly expected, we have a new government to lead us through the next five years. Well, I’m not a political commentator, and I wouldn’t claim to be an expert on the subject, but I am happy to live in a country where we can value our freedom and enjoy the principles of democracy. After weeks of canvassing, arguing and general ballyhoo, I was greatly encouraged to see the opening parliamentary speeches as the reds moved to the speakers right, and the blues to the left. In my opinion, Rishi Sunak spoke with grace and generosity as he handed over the baton. However, I was most struck by his heartfelt, and kind, words for, and to, Diane Abbot. Whilst making it clear that they obviously do not share the same views and political opinions, he was able to appreciate her many years in Parliament, and her distinguished leadership of the Borough of Hackney. In fact, Rishi was warm in his praise of her becoming the ‘mother of the house’. In listening to the speech, and considering Diane Abbots dedication to her beliefs, and her willingness to stand by them at all costs, I couldn’t help but see parallels within our own business. 

So, the sun came out at last. There was definitely a collective sigh of relief over North London, and that wonderful odour that only a BBQ can offer was all around. Of course, as the thermostat rose, so our fridges decided to have a bit of fun with us. The deli counters at both NW5 and N16 stopped working and the air-con at N16 also had a little wobble. Enter stage right the wonderful James, laden with his tool belt, pumps, gas bottles, blow torches, batteries, bits of string and an elastic band. Our fantastic fridge engineer has looked after us for many years and is one of the best in the business. James also comes with a ready smile and an assurance that we are worrying over nothing (providing we pay on time!). We’re up and running again, and everything is cold. Good old James.