Cress Co Named Associate of the Year at Farm Retail Association Awards

Cress Co is thrilled and grateful to have been named Associate of the Year 2025 at the Farm Retail Association Awards.

What makes this award truly special for Cress Co is that it is judged by farm retailers themselves, the very businesses Cress Co works to support every day. The judging process included customer testimonials and mystery shopper phone calls, meaning the company was recognised not just for what it says it does, but for what it actually delivers - reliable service, strong relationships, and a genuine commitment to customers.

“We never expect awards for simply doing what is believed to be right,” said Joe Wall, founder and Managing Director of Cress Co “But to receive this recognition from the people Cress Co serves is an absolute honour. It’s a testament to the incredible team, who go above and beyond every day.”

The awards ceremony was part of a fantastic event hosted by the Farm Retail Association, which champions local food, farm shops, farmers’ markets, and PYO businesses. Cress Co was also proud to sponsor the Small Farm Shop of the Year award, where some of its valued customers - Ardross Farm Shop, Castle Farm, Kent and Fordhall Farm Shop - were finalists. Huge congratulations to Castle Farm, Kent for taking home the award!

At Dell'Ugo, our story is steeped in tradition, innovation, and love for exceptional food. Since 1929, we have been crafting the finest fresh pasta using British free-range eggs and premium Italian Altamura semolina. It's a commitment to quality that has defined us for four generations.

It all began with Luigi Ugo, a young Italian with a passion for pasta who brought fresh, handmade pasta to the streets of London. What started as a small delicatessen soon grew into something much greater - a household name synonymous with innovation and authenticity. From introducing fresh pasta to the UK to pioneering new flavours and formats. Dell'Ugo has never stopped evolving.

Today, we continue to honour our heritage while embracing the future. Alongside our renowned fresh pasta, we offer an exciting range of sauces, pesto, gnocchi, and Italian breads - all made with the same dedication to craftmanship. Using only the finest locally sourced ingredients, we ensure every product delivers an unrivalled taste experience.

Dell'Ugo is so much more than just fresh pasta - it's a celebration of bold flavours and exceptional ingredients.

Browse our range of Dell'Ugo products HERE

Name
Craig Arnold

Nickname
Don't have one.

Job Title
Telford Warehouse Operative - Goods In

Catch-phrase / favourite quote?
"If you tucked a healthy child into a warm bed in a safe home last night and woke up to their smiling face this morning, you have won the lottery"

What do you do at the Cress Company?
Handle goods-in and support with health & safety.

What do you enjoy when not working?
Relaxing, walking the dog and spending time with family.

If you could choose any product from the Cress brochure, what would it be and why?
Pompidou Pies

Favourite film of all time?
Quadrophenia.

Who would be your 3 fantasy dinner party guests?
Shane McGowan, Stewart Lee and Billy Bragg.

What might people be surprised to learn about you?
I'm qualified in canine health and nutrition.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Pay into a pension.

What would be your last supper?
Egg, chips, bread and butter.

What would you do if you won the lottery?
Retire.

What was your first job?
Y.T.S. - Introduction to construction.

What is top on your bucket list?
Move to Wales and live by the sea.

Product of the month as chosen by Craig:

Pompidou Pies - Overnight Shin of Beef.

Pompidou Pies - Breton Chicken

Please find all of our March Promotions HERE

Due to growing demand, we've expanded our fleet to boost our temperature-controlled distribution. Keep an eye out for our brand-new 16-tonne and three new 12-tonne multi-temperature trucks, as well as our two 3.5-tonne dual-temperature vans - each proundly showcasing our fresh Cress Co branding.

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Praveen Kumar

Praveen Kumar's award-winning hand cooked Indian meals, based on dishes from his AA Rosette restaurant, are in chilled format for the first time. There are 8 to choose from.

World Class Bakes

Award-winning pastry-free savoury bakes, made from scratch with restaurant-quality filling, encased in a soft, savoury brioche bun. The World Classic Bakes range includes Austrian Sausage, Salmon Cream Cheese and Moroccan Veggies.

Clandeboye

Award-winning Greek Style yoghurts by Clandeboye, made exclusively with whole milk from County Down farms. Also available with granola, crumble and chocolate toppings.

Tastesmiths

Tastesmiths' fresh curry spice kits come in 10 mouth-watering flavours. Just add meat, fish or vegetables and follow the step-by-step instructions. No food waste and fully recyclable packaging.

Cold Press Juice

100% cold pressed, 0% pasteurised juices, smoothies and shots, packed full of nutrients.

The Buxton Pudding Co

Savour the delights of The Buxton Pudding Co. From individual and family-sized puddings to their ever-popular real vanilla custard, all crafted with tradition and care.