A FAMILY grocery chain is giving aspiring food and drink businesses the chance to take off.

Booths has launched a new mentorship and support programme to encourage budding entrepreneurs.

The company, which has a store in Knutsford, has pledged to invest funds and expertise to help an emerging food brand to the next level.

The Booths Accelerator will offer a tailored programme of support to help grow, develop and sustain a food and drinks business of the future.

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Booths was founded in the spirit of entrepreneurship.

Edwin Booth, an orphan of little means, opened his first shop in Blackpool by borrowing £80 worth of stock from his previous employer. 

Young Edwin’s flair and entrepreneurial spirit allowed him to pay for the goods in just three months, making a profit of £50.

The store has already helped budding entrepreneurs.

Lee and Kevan Fernandez of Rafi's Spicebox supply handmade mixes for home cooked curries in five Booths stores.

Edgar Johnson, seven, is the firm's youngest supplier.

Knutsford Guardian: Edgar Johnson, seven, the youngest supplier to Booths, with mum Jane from Edgar's Family FruitEdgar Johnson, seven, the youngest supplier to Booths, with mum Jane from Edgar's Family Fruit

The venture celebrates the firm’s 175th anniversary of their first store.

Booths managing director Nigel Murray said:“Getting a new product to market or an idea into production is a challenge, just as it was in 1847 when Booths began.

“Some 81 per cent of food and drink start-ups don’t feel they get enough support from the industry.

“This initiative is set to change that, it’s our way of giving back, by sharing our insights, experience, and tactical investment to help the next generation of food businesses.

“Our suppliers, farmers and producers making great products are the key ingredients to the success of Booths.

“The original EH Booth’s desire to sell the very best goods he could find, still drives our business. “We value the people and businesses who make exceptional food and drink and this initiative is to help nurture the food entrepreneurs of the future.”

Applications are open until August 31.

To apply for the Booths Accelerator scheme email accelerator@booths.co.uk or visit booths.co.uk/the-booths-accelerator/