Business in the Spotlight

CHN catches up with Country & Stable

CRUN C H I E - COMPANY MASCOT

Tell us a little bit of background about Country & Stable.

We are an independent retailer of quality English and European equestrian products, and British country clothing. It all started 10 years ago, in a small shop in the Market Town of Olney, Buckinghamshire. The company has grown substantially over the years, prompting a move to a larger warehouse, allowing us to offer a wider product range and higher standard of customer service.

What is your company mission/vision?

We work hard every day to make Country & Stable the number one provider of quality country and equestrian goods at competitive prices. We’re striving to provide an effortless shopping experience to ensure customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Hands down the best supplier of equestrian and country, went above and beyond for me, highly recommend.

L.Mules What makes your business stand out from other businesses offering similar services or products?

We are one big family, and endeavour through all possible channels to make our customers feel a part of that too. We also pride ourselves on giving back by supporting several local horsey and non-horsey charities. Giving away anything from feed and bedding to competition prizes or support with monetary donations. We also offer support within the equestrian community, backing a local para dressage rider, Amanda Shirtcliffe and offering out an annual Bursary Programme to amateur riders.

What are your customers saying about you? What keeps them coming back?

We are not shy in sharing that we regularly get positive feedback from customers via social media 'shout outs', emails and Google reviews. Our customer's comments mainly focus around our quick delivery and helpful and friendly customer service. In fact, this most recent Google review says it all: “Hands down the best supplier of equestrian and country, went above and beyond for me, highly recommend.” L.Mules.

What are your greatest successes?

Amongst a number of proud achievements over the past 10 years, one of our most recent is the development of our Instagram page, @countryandstable. We set out with a clear idea that we wanted our account to build on our family feel and form an online community of our genuine customers. So many business accounts these days choose the hard sell, but we believe we have achieved a page that involves and empowers our customers and encourages them to share their real-life experiences of the products they love for their horses and the countryside.

What has really worked for your business?

The team! Combining a core group of horse and country enthusiast but also, incorporating people that are not. Our non-horsey employees really help in offering a different perspective to our service.

What are your plans for the future of the business?

Now that would be telling! However, without giving away any secrets, we can share that our plans are always evolving, and with our loyal customers, old and new, we are excited for the future of Country & Stable. Watch this space…

Tell us 2 truths and a lie?

We have a soft toy as a company mascot We have a shop on site We only employ people that have expert horse knowledge, ride, and/or have horses (Answers are hidden above)