Exciting New Season for Green Pastures
We are thrilled to announce a brand new chapter in the story of Green Pastures, as the much-loved farm shop, garden centre, café and restaurant based here in Bergh Apton, just outside Norwich, with the arrival of local businessman Karl Sandall. Karl joins the existing co-owner James Debbage, having purchased the other half of the business from Michelle Peacock (Evans).
With deep roots in Norfolk, Karl brings a wealth of business experience and a strong passion for community-focused enterprise. Karl spent the first half of his career supporting local businesses as a bank manager with Midland / HSBC and then as a very successful UK and International franchisor helping over 400 UK and International franchisees grow their businesses grow as well as growing the franchisor business itself as a major shareholder and Group CEO of the Tax Assist Group. As a long-term Green Pastures customer (and an avid gardener of course!), Karl couldn’t wait to become involved in the business that he has always loved when Michelle announced her desire to swap pastures green for pastures-new!
The familiar face of James Debbage still remains firmly on the scene as Karl’s new business partner and together they are committed to building further on Green Pastures’ reputation as a go-to destination for locally sourced produce, seasonal plants, and hearty home-cooked food. James will continue in his very hands-on role running the garden centre as well as overseeing the farm shop and restaurant. With almost 40 years of experience working in garden centres and horticulture, James is delighted to receive the support of Karl’s expertise to help the business improve and grow.
Honouring the Green Pastures Legacy
Green Pastures has long been a cherished part of the Norfolk countryside, known for its friendly service, farm-fresh goods, home cooking, home baking and beautiful setting just a short drive from Norwich. Under James and Karl’s leadership, the core values that customers love—local, fresh, and quality home produced food—will remain at the heart of everything we do.
Karl said, “Green Pastures is a gem in Bergh Apton, and I feel incredibly privileged to carry it forward. My aim is to honour what’s already been built here, while introducing new elements that make it even more enjoyable for our loyal customers and first-time visitors alike. Green Pastures isn’t just about business – it’s about people, growth and making a difference to the communities that we serve.
What’s Coming Next?
While it’s business as usual for now, exciting plans are on the horizon and indeed some have already begun! “It’s not about making drastic changes” says James, “Both Karl and I recognise that Green Pastures really belongs to our customers and they support us because they enjoy what and who we are so we would be foolish to suddenly change that.
Most of our initial improvements have been subtle, aimed at strengthening the foundations to weather the stormy environment of increasing costs that businesses are coping with and supporting the fantastic team of people that we work with and improving the way the business operates behind the scenes.
Customers will have noticed new signage, a new counter in the restaurant, several new coats of paint around the place and our very distinguishable new delivery van! We have also been improving the way we communicate, to existing customers with monthly newsletters, to provide the outside world with regular video posts on social media and very importantly internally with our team of staff.
Work’s already begun introducing new products in the garden centre and farm shop along with additions to the restaurant menus.
Visitors can expect to see:
- An even broader selection of local food and drinks
- Enhanced garden centre displays with more locally grown plants
- Refreshed indoor and outdoor dining spaces
- Even more stunning homemade meals and cakes
A Local Business for Local People
As proud Norfolk Boys, James and Karl understand the importance of supporting local growers, producers, and businesses. Their vision for Green Pastures is one that remains firmly rooted in its Norfolk identity, celebrating all that makes this part of the country so special.
Green Pastures will continue to serve the communities of Bergh Apton, Loddon, Poringland, and the greater Norwich area with high-quality, homegrown goods, seasonal garden inspiration, and a warm welcome at every visit.
Our Post Office serves as evidence of our commitment to provide local amenities for those that need them
Stay Connected
We would love for you to follow our journey as we grow. Whether you’re a long-time customer or have yet to visit us in Bergh Apton, we invite you to come by, say hello, and see what’s new at Green Pastures.
Follow us on social media, subscribe to our newsletter through our VIP Loyalty Club, or pop in next time you’re passing through the beautiful Norfolk countryside.
We really look forward to seeing our regular customers more, and certainly very much wish to welcome new customers to experience our oasis of good food, plants and hospitality.
Here’s to a bright and blossoming future at Green Pastures!
