People / Bristol
Three decades of a successful small business
With supermarket chains and out-of-town retail parks posing an ever-growing threat to small businesses, Shirehampton butcher Paul Wood is one man on a mission to breath life back into local communities – one prime cut at a time.
Having worked at Woods Family Butchers for more than three decades, the 51-year-old took over the shop in 2013, using his newfound clout to support and better the surrounding areas in any way he could.
“We have customers that have been shopping here since they were children, and now they have children of their own,” says Paul. “I feel very lucky to be here and witness that, and the people of the Shire have always been good to me. It’s important to give back – you have to remember that without them you wouldn’t have anything.”
is needed now More than ever
A Shirehampton institution for more than 200 years, the High Street shop is the epitome of a successful small business: fuelled by a love of the local community and a genuine desire to see it thrive.
“I do love coming here at 5am every morning. It’s like my little haven – I feel safe when I walk through that door and I know my customers will always give me something to laugh or smile about.”
Greeting the majority of his customers by name, Paul has become a much-loved champion of the village, well-known for his involvement in local projects including sponsorship of Hallen FC and an ongoing support of Avonmouth Rugby Club.
“I help out the local nursery when I can, and last Christmas I was able to put on a Christmas lunch for pensioners at The Rock community centre in Lawrence Weston, which I felt really good about. I know how difficult life can be when things get tough, so if I can help others in any way, shape or form I always try to.”
A staunch advocate for independent retailers and keeping produce local, Paul recently teamed up with a nearby fruit and veg shop to offer a delivery service across Bristol for those who don’t have the time or the transport to pick up groceries from their neighbourhood sellers.
Even before this service was available, he would give up his free time delivering to those who had limited mobility – even going as far as taking the morning papers to one elderly lady who struggled to leave the house.
An all-round humble and unassuming man, Paul blushes at the word ‘hero’ being used to describe him, but daughter Clare can’t sing his praises enough.
“He treats his customers with the same care and kindness he does his family, and there’s nothing he wouldn’t do for someone in need. He’s really is one of a kind,” she says.
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