Catering business goes from start-up to success at Newcastle Enterprise Centre

Sarah Thomas, founder of Scone – The Tea Party Catering Company, based at Newcastle Enterprise Centre.

A small catering business has achieved significant growth, doubling its workshop space thanks to the supportive and flexible environment provided at Newcastle Enterprise Centre. 

Sarah Thomas, owner of the Scone Tea Party Catering Co, specialises in creating box buffets with sandwiches, cakes and grazing platters for individuals and businesses. 

After launching her business in 2022, Sarah decided to base it at Newcastle Enterprise Centre in Knutton, one of eight enterprise centres managed by Staffordshire County Council. 

Starting in one of the centre’s smallest units, Sarah’s business quickly flourished, leading to the need for a larger space. Thanks to the centre’s flexible tenancy agreements and proactive support from its management team, Sarah transitioned seamlessly to a unit more than twice the size of her original workspace. 

Sarah said:

“The management team here, they don't just want to tick their boxes. They want to see your business succeed nearly as much as you do and they will do what they can to help you. 

“I didn't have to worry about anything. If you were changing premises in the private sector, it would be so much more complicated and expensive.” 

Sarah initially considered private sector premises but found them unaffordable, especially with additional costs like business rates, rubbish collection, and maintenance. 

Newcastle Enterprise Centre offered a cost-effective alternative with competitive pricing and rolling monthly contracts - ideal for start-ups and growing businesses. 

Newcastle Enterprise Centre, situated just minutes from Newcastle Town Centre and the A34, has a variety of competitively priced workshops perfect for start-ups and businesses looking to expand. These are available to rent on a flexible monthly contract. 

Sarah highly recommends the county council’s enterprise centres to anyone thinking of starting a business. 

She said:

“You can feel a bit lost sometimes starting your new business and, knowing that there's all these people surrounding you who have all been through the same thing, it's so helpful.” 

Newcastle Enterprise Centre is currently undergoing a £1.6 million expansion, adding six new workshops available on minimum five-year leases.  

This expansion, jointly funded by central government and Staffordshire County Council, reinforces the county council’s commitment to supporting small businesses and the regeneration of Knutton. 

Philip White, Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for economy and skills, said:

"Sarah’s success showcases the supportive environment fostered by our dedicated staff and the vibrant business community at Newcastle Enterprise Centre. 

“Our enterprise centres provide flexible, affordable tenancies for offices, workshops and industrial units, giving growing businesses the freedom to expand without the burden of long-term private sector leases. 

“We also have hot desks and meeting rooms available for anyone to book. Take a look at our website to find out what is available at each of our eight enterprise centres.” 

Staffordshire County Council has eight enterprise centres based in Stafford, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Burton and Cannock.

Enquire now about workspaces, hot desks and meeting rooms at Staffordshire Enterprise Centres. 

Watch on YouTube: Catering business goes from start-up to success at Newcastle Enterprise Centre