Page 50 - ALG Issue 2 2025

LONDON
NEW
LOOK
SHOP
The Hook Allotment Garden Association
(HAGA) and Hook Leisure Gardens
Allotment Association (HLGA) were
previously two separate entities, each
managed by different volunteer groups.
HAGA operated the shop independently
of Allotment Association (i.e. HLGA). To
enhance the shop's business potential
and increase its convenience for both
allotment plotholders and local residents,
a joint EGM held by both associations
on October 14, 2023, approved the
integration of the shop into the Hook
Leisure Gardens Allotment Association
(HLGA), effective January 1, 2024.
With the green light, the committees,
plotholders, and former shop volunteers
have dedicated their expertise, time, and
resources tirelessly throughout the cold, wet
winter from December 2023 to March 2024.
The shop and its store room, once in need
of attention, have undergone a remarkable
transformation. The newly reconfigured shop
and storeroom layout, along with new notice
boards, have made the space more visually
and physically accessible. The two previously
cold and dark rooms have been thoroughly
cleaned and repainted. Major improvements
include new cladding, door locks, and hinges,
as well as the installation of solar panels,
heaters, metal shelves, and updated product
labels. The introduction of two card readers
facilitated cashless transactions, offering
"The integration of the shop into the allotment
has proven mutually beneficial"
mutual benefits to both the shop and its
customers. Each task has been carefully
planned and executed with the aim of
enhancing the shop's presence, providing
greater convenience, and improving the
shopping experience for plotholders and
other local customers.
These are just a few of the changes that
have been implemented. Since then, the
Allotment Committee and its volunteers
have continued to explore new ideas to
maximise the benefits of having the shop
at the front of the allotment. The shop's
transformation has been a remarkable
achievement, made possible only through
the selfless efforts of all those involved.
While those who contributed take pride
in their accomplishments, the positive
feedback from others reflects the success
of the improvements. The integration of
the shop into the allotment has proven
mutually beneficial, further strengthening
the communal spirit among the committee
and plotholders.
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Dixter Orange new for 2025
50 | Issue 2 2025 | Allotment and Leisure Gardener