Perry’s of Eccleshall is a proper Staffordshire butcher not far from me, and until very recently I’d never actually stepped inside. But every time I drove past, I slowed down just to look at the window.
Because the window does a lot of work.
It quietly signals pride in the craft, an instinctive understanding of its customers, and the confidence that only comes from doing something well for a long time. Chalkboards, clear signage, good light.. and products displayed in a way that makes you stop, look, and smile.
What’s clever is that for years I became a tiny part of their marketing without ever buying a thing. I mentioned them to people. I pointed the shop out as I drove past.
And then yesterday, just before Christmas, I finally went in.. and came out with one of their large pork pies.
When people like me start doing your talking for you, you’ve probably got something right.
And Christmas seems a very good moment to notice businesses that understand that.
Andrew Greenhalgh 