Owners of Wortham Stores and Teashop ready to retire but can’t find buyer

The owners of a family-run village shop and tearoom say they are desperate to retire — but finding the right buyer is proving a challenge.

Peter and Janice Lloyd, both 68, have run Wortham Stores and Teashop for the past 17 years, alongside their daughter Deborah Young and her husband, Chris.

The Grade II listed property includes a Post Office, a flat above the shop and a neighbouring house, all forming one unit.

The business has been on the market for two and a half years — however, interest has been limited so far.

Peter said: “We used to have plans for our retirement, but now we just want to rest.

“My health isn’t getting any better and, after busy working lives before ever coming to Wortham, we’re more than ready for a break.”

The property is listed at £695,000 by estate agents Humberstones which report sales figures of £311,830 in the year to March 2024, plus £33,085 in Post Office income.

Sales have since increased to £318,231 and the current stock level is estimated at £14,000.

The shop offers all the essentials typically found in a village store — with an emphasis on sourcing from local suppliers.

The tearoom serves hot and cold food, homemade cakes, and drinks, which are all prepared on site.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for someone who wants to run a business and become part of village life,” Peter said.

“This building has so much history, and Wortham is such a lovely place to live — it’s hard not to fall in love with it.”

However, Peter said it is disheartening to see fewer people interested in running independent businesses like this.

He said: “It’s so sad that no one seems to want to take on these kinds of shops anymore.

“The people we see every day are amazing — and once we do eventually retire, we’re really going to miss them all.

“It’s a real community hub — for some people, we’re the only ones they speak to all day — so it’s important that whoever takes over becomes part of the community.”