Rural Wales gets 24/7 farm shop access as Rhug expands community services

RHUG ESTATE is modernising rural convenience with the launch of new out-of-hours vending machines and InPost parcel lockers – giving local people easier access to fresh produce and essential services in the heart of the Welsh countryside.

The award-winning organic estate, near Corwen, has introduced the vending machines to provide customers with 24/7 access to Rhug’s premium produce beyond normal Farm Shop opening hours, offering added flexibility for visitors while also helping to reduce food waste.

Stocked with the Estate’s own organic products, the machines allow customers to pick up fresh, locally sourced food whenever it suits them – from early mornings and late evenings to busy weekends when time is limited.

Alongside the new food offering, InPost parcel lockers have been installed beside the Farm Shop, near the Ice Cream Parlour, bringing a much-needed service to the rural area.

The self-service lockers allow residents and visitors to collect and return parcels without travelling long distances, with the nearest alternative more than five miles away.

Lord Newborough, owner of Rhug Estate, said: “We are always looking for practical ways to support our local community while staying true to our sustainability values.

“The vending machines mean people can access our produce outside normal opening hours and help us reduce unnecessary waste, while the InPost lockers solve a genuine problem for many people living in rural areas who often have to travel significant distances for parcel collections and returns.

“We want Rhug to be genuinely useful for our community, not just a place to visit, and these additions are another step towards making the Estate even more welcoming for both residents and visitors alike.”

Those visiting the site to collect parcels can also make use of the Farm Shop, Café and recently expanded outdoor dining and conservatory area, further enhancing the visitor experience at the Estate.

The developments come during a major period of growth and investment for Rhug Estate, which continues to build a reputation for sustainability, regenerative farming and rural innovation.

Earlier this year, one of North Wales’s most recognisable roadside landmarks – the famous metal bison statue that has stood outside the Farm Shop on the A5 for more than 15 years – was transformed into a striking gold feature.

The makeover reflected what the Estate described as a “golden” period of success, following the granting of a Royal Warrant of Appointment by His Majesty King Charles III, recognition as home to the UK’s largest bison herd, and continued expansion across its food, retail and visitor operations.

Rhug has also continued to strengthen its environmental commitments, including further carbon measurement work following Planet Mark Business Certification. The Estate is now calculating Scope 3 emissions linked to the Farm Shop and wider operations as part of its long-term net zero ambitions.

For more news and information, visit Rhug Estate and follow @rhugestate on social media.

For more information on Rhug Wild Beauty follow @rhugwildbeauty.

ENDS