Island Foods Ltd, based in Bullen Village, has received a £25,000 interest-free loan from the Isle of Wight Lottery to support its continued expansion. Led by Steve and Joanne Doe, the business has grown from its beginnings as a local butcher shop in Sandown into a well-established catering supplier serving homes, schools, hospitals, and even high-profile events like Wimbledon.
The company’s journey began when larger supermarket chains moved into Sandown, prompting the Does to pivot their business model. They transitioned into catering, outgrew their initial premises, and eventually took on two units in Bullen Village. Thanks to increasing local support and demand, they expanded further by opening a retail counter, which has since become one of the largest on the island.
The COVID-19 pandemic, while challenging for many, became a turning point for Island Foods. Already equipped with a website and a small-scale delivery service, the team quickly adapted to the new circumstances, expanding home deliveries and building a broader client base across the Isle of Wight. Their high standards and reliability have earned them FDA approval and contracts with major clients, including Red Funnel.
With 18 staff members and plans to hire at least two more, the interest-free loan from the Isle of Wight Lottery has been instrumental. It is being used not only to expand the team but also to invest in new equipment and to outfit a cookery room upstairs, where Steve and Joanne plan to produce their own branded goods like pork scratchings. “The loan really helps,” Steve explained. “It’s enabled us to grow without the burden of interest. We’d definitely recommend it to others.”
Despite their success, Steve and Joanne remain humble. “We’re not ones to shout about what we do,” Steve said, “but we’re passionate, and we love serving the island.” With strong community roots and a hands-on approach, Island Foods Ltd is a shining example of local enterprise thriving with a little help.
Isle of Wight Lottery loans are interest free.
Repayable over 1-3 years.
For any amount between £500 and £50,000.
The loaned money has to be used to create or sustain Island jobs.
Please complete the application form and read the Terms and Conditions.
