EXCEPTIONAL GENERAL STORE & CAFÉ WITH POST OFFICE LOCAL VILLAGE LOCATION, EAST SUSSEX

Situated in a charming in mid Sussex and not far from Lewes and Hailsham, this well-established general store is an exceptional business opportunity. Operated by the current vendor for six successful years, the store has built a stellar reputation for excellent customer service and a wide range of high-quality offerings, including fresh deli produce, household goods, gifts, and more. Adding to its appeal, the store features a Post Office Local, which attracts loyal customers from the local area and nearby villages, ensuring steady foot traffic. The business also boasts a popular café that serves breakfast, light lunches, and afternoon tea, further enhancing its income streams and community presence. This turnkey business is fully operational and highly profitable, offering immediate income for the new owner. The only reason for its sale is the vendor’s decision to retire, making this a rare chance to acquire a thriving business in a picturesque and highly sought-after location.

THE PREMISES: The business occupies a corner plot in the village and is located on a main road but has the benefit of being just off a side road which provides ample parking for customers visiting the stores and café. To the front of the premises is a paved forecourt with a picnic bench and the village post box. On entering the stores on your right-hand side are several upright fridges containing fresh produce, fitted shelves and a central gondola used for the display of freshly baked bread and cakes, preserves and tinned goods. Opposite this area is an additional refrigerator serve over counter which is used for the display of cold meats and cheeses. Adjacent to this area is the Post Office counter. The Store also stocks several gifts, stationary items and fresh flowers. Beyond the retail space are covers for 12, with a further 25 covers available in the courtyard garden. The kitchen is located towards the very rear of the premises and is fitted with several stainless-steel units and has domestic extraction fitted. There is also a dry store area adjacent to the kitchen.  The customer toilets are located towards the rear of the premises.

ALCOHOL LICENCE: The licence permits on and off sales during opening hours.

TURNOVER: The business is currently run by the vendor, with the assistance of 6 part time members of staff. 4 of the staff members are trained to work in the Post Office and assist when needed serving in the café. The business has the benefit of 3 revenue streams, these are from the café, general store and Post Office salary. The café and general store generate a weekly turnover of £5,500 per week. The Post Office salary is approximately £25,000 per annum. Current trading hours are Monday – Friday 8am-5pm and 8am-12:30pm on Saturday.

TENURE:  The premises are held on a full repairing and insuring lease at a current rent of £8,000 per annum.  The landlord has confirmed that they’d grant a new 5 year lease to the purchaser at a new rent to be agreed between the parties.

RATES: The business receives the benefit of the Small Business Rate Relief and the amount payable at the present time is zero. The rateable value for the premises is £7,900 per annum. Prospective occupiers should make their own enquiries to verify same.

GENERAL REMARKS: This business was personally inspected by the vendor’s sole agents who can thoroughly recommend this as being an extremely well run and presented business. Fantastic village location on a busy main road with easy access to parking. The business benefits from 3 revenue streams from the café, Post Office salary and general store. Developed an excellent reputation among residents and businesses.

PRICE: We are instructed to quote for the lease, goodwill, equipment, trade fixtures and fittings £75,000 SAV (stock estimated at £18,000)

LEGAL FEES:  Each party to be responsible for their own legal costs.

VIEWING: On no account should any approach be made to the staff without a prior appointment through the vendor’s sole agents, Watkins Commercial, Telephone: 01273 709090. 

ENERGY PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATE:  The vendor’s are in the process of obtaining an EPC.

DISCLAIMER: Neither the Vendor nor the Agent gives or implies any warranty that the premises are fit for any particular use or that they comply with any relevant regulation or statutory requirement.

The agents have not tested any apparatus, equipment, fittings or services so cannot verify that they are in working order.  The buyer is advised to obtain verification from their solicitor or surveyor before proceeding with the purchase.

VAT:    All prices and rents are quoted exclusive of VAT.  Any intending purchasers or lessees must satisfy themselves independently as to the incidence of VAT in respect of any transaction.

MORTGAGE & FINANCIAL PLANNING:  We shall be pleased to assist any purchaser in arranging finance to acquire this business or any other business you may be considering subject to status. 

Prop. Ref:        6842G

These particulars are believed to be correct but their accuracy is not guaranteed and

they do not form any part of any contract

APPLICANTS CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT

I understand and agree that any information regarding any business supplied to by Watkins Commercial will be kept strictly confidential.  I also undertake that I will:

i)                View businesses registered with Watkins Commercial by appointment only.

ii)               Not contact any owner, staff, suppliers, competitors or customers of any business registered with Watkins Commercial

iii)              Not pass on any information supplied by Watkins Commercial to any third party other than a professional advisor et. Bank, solicitor, surveyor accountant, etc.

iv)              Submit any offers direct to Watkins Commercial with whom I will conduct all negotiations

v)               Be liable for any commission which would have been due to Watkins Commercial should I be party to negotiations or actions which seek to preclude, or are contrary to the interest of Watkins Commercial.