Fresh fields for RV Howe
Lincoln based fruit and vegetable wholesalers RV Howe have recently relocated for only the third time in the company’s 85-year history. The start of the city’s East-West Link Road has prompted this move after 33 years in their previous premises on Tentercroft Street.
The business is today managed by the third generation of the family, Stuart Howe, his wife Sue, brother-in-law Ian McFall and two loyal employees of long standing.
“Zacchariah Howe and his son Reginald Varlow Howe started the business in 1930,” explained Stuart. “They traded in Manby Street and when Reginald’s son, Thomas joined the business, he and his sister Edna ran greengrocer’s stalls close to the Central Market in Sincil Street.”
The horse and cart deliveries were long ago replaced and today three delivery vans serve a busy customer base within a fifteen to twenty mile radius of Lincoln, six days a week.
“Our warehouse and refrigeration units are stocked with a great variety of produce,” said Stuart. “Our customers include restaurants, takeaways and public houses, plus local schools and nursing homes. We give them the availability of reasonably priced fresh, local fruit and vegetables, herbs, exotic fruits and par-fried chips delivered to their door.
“Potatoes are a good example of the choice we can offer clients. Many years ago we probably stocked two or three varieties but today we have up to five fresh lines plus all the par-cooked options.”
The new warehouse is easily accessible from the Lincoln bypass, just off Doddington Road, and will also serve members of the public with whole cases or by volume.
“In the winter months produce is coming via merchants in Hull, Spalding and Holland, a lot from continental growers, but as spring begins local Lincolnshire and UK grown produce comes into season,” said Stuart.
Stuart, Sue and the team at RV Howe welcome customers to visit their new premises and have a look around their bustling warehouse, brimming with fresh vegetables, brightly coloured salads and tempting fruits. The warehouse is open from 6am to 3.30pm Monday to Friday and until 1pm on Saturdays.
“We are pleased to have the relocation completed now and focus on the next phase of the business. Choice is the expectation today and together with our excellent service, RV Howe will continue to serve clients for many more decades to come,” added Stuart.
RV Howe Ltd, Unit 18, Wainer Close, Doddington Road, Lincoln LN6 3RY. Tel: 01522 527147.
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