Future expansion prospects for Helch Market’s newest addition

‘Grate Expectations’ is an independent, gourmet mac and cheese street food stall that recently opened in Bournemouth town centre.

Rosie Vallance and her partner Simon Thornton have been running the business since the start of this year from their trailer, catering for private party’s and festivals always wanting to find a permanent home. 

The pair jumped at the opportunity in Helch Market when they saw the unit was open, hopeful at the prospect of the new location following on from its previous renters ‘Loco Lime’ success.  

Rosie said: “It’s lovely having somewhere permanent, pulling a trailer is quite stressful for someone who hasn’t done it before, but we have learnt a lot from that over a very short amount of time.” 

Rosie wanted to start the business because no one seemed to make it the way she likes, encouraging her to take matters into her own hands. 

Although the couple have relocated into a more permanent home this isn’t the end of their aspirations, they see this as an opportunity for further expansion.

Simon said: “The trailer was great in the summer, so this gives us a way to grow the business as we are able to continue to serve people in the colder months.” 

Rosie added: “We still have weddings booked for next year so we can do a bit of both.” 

However, it hasn’t all been great for Rosie and Simon.

They have struggled moving to one of the smaller units that are found in Helch Market since there is a limited venue capacity and extended planning required for the move.

As well as this, they had to increase all their prep to accommodate working five days a week instead of the previous two.

After a successful first year the couple both agreed they can’t continue to work to this level by themselves.

Although they are not looking to hire this Christmas they are optimistic if they have another successful year, they will look to expand again.