Willaston Butchers have shared a thought-provoking statement highlighting the hard work, resilience and uncertainty faced by independent butchers.
It also explained why supporting local shops shouldn’t be limited to the Christmas period.
The message challenges the idea that butchers are only essential during the festive rush, pointing out that behind the counter is a trade that operates from early morning to closing time, every day of the year.
Not Just For Christmas
From sourcing livestock and breaking down carcasses to producing burgers, sausages, pies and cooked meats, filling a butcher’s cabinet requires skill, time and significant manpower.
Using a single burger as an example, the statement outlines the lengthy process involved, from farm to abattoir, preparation, mincing, seasoning and hand pressing, one of hundreds of products prepared daily.
The post also reflects on decades of challenges faced by the industry, including BSE, E. coli outbreaks, Foot and Mouth disease, the horsemeat scandal, Covid-19 and avian flu.
In each case, when supermarket shelves were empty, local butchers stepped in to support their communities, often absorbing extra costs rather than passing them on to customers.
Use it!
Despite this, the statement notes that support often fades once a crisis ends.
Rising costs, supermarket competition and increasing pressures are now forcing many butchers to consider closing their doors.
The message ends with a clear call to action: support local businesses all year round, not just for two weeks in December.
“Use it or lose it,” the statement warns, urging islanders to help keep local shops alive and thriving.
