The Plumstead Pantry on Plumstead common SE18 is fast becoming a well known spot in South East London - even earning a mention in “The Guardian” in July 2016 - and with so much competition from chain companies, it is a wonder that this small, family run coffe shop has become so well loved. Having opened first in 2015 as a pop-up shop and soon taking over the space completely (previously owned by Tony’s Cafe), it seems that the business is going well.
The Plumstead Pantry gives off the impression of a young, trendy spot where flat whites are made and avocado on toast is served as brunch. It’s a big change from the previous “greasy spoon” cafe there before, but there has certianly been business. Everyone from young people and their friends to familes and elderly people can be found there on a daily basis. It seems like everything is running smoothly and a mention in “The Guardian” only a year after opening is certainly a positive sign for the couple Ashley and Julia Jones who own the business.
However, with more popularity comes more pressure. The Pantry aims to provide locally sourced food and goods to support local businesses such as “The Very Green Grocer” and “Drury Tea and Coffee” - both companies that work in Plumstead, Woolwich and the local area. This seems like a good idea, supporting local businesses and creating a unique place in Plumstead.
Julia Jones, owner of The Plumstead Pantry, admits that business has definitely become “easier since becoming established”, and the support for this coffee shop is evident all over social media.
However, as Julia Jones says, “you can’t please everyone” and there is some backlash regarding the pricing of food with some locals claiming that it is too overpriced and extravagant. On one hand, it is easy to see where this comes from; chain resturants and cafes manage to sell similar items at much cheaper prices. On the other hand, the origins of these items must be considered and, when buying from small independent businesses, the prices are higher. In particualr, the Pantry makes an effort to buy ethically sourced goods and reduce waste. For example, takeaway cups now cost an extra 15p and customers and encouraged to bring their own reusable cups in order to prevent waste.
Regardless of the backlash, the coffee shop idea is clearly taking hold in Plumstead and, more recently, an old public toilet building has been given £600,000 by Greenwich Council and recently re-opened as “The Slade Cafe”. The response has been positive and this cafe is also locally run by Charlotte O’Connor and chef Kieran Barry.
It appears that Plumstead is changing, and who knows what other local business will open in the near future?
