The town is full of hard-working and passionate business owners, many of whom we are lucky to speak to and share the stories of every week at the Chronicle & Echo.
Among the hundreds we featured in 2024, we have whittled it down to just 11 who we want to give a shoutout to at the start of this new year.
From a community cafe in a hidden gem town centre shopping location, to a gift boutique that opened its second venue in 2024, be sure to continue supporting our independent businesses to see them thrive.
‘Use it or lose it’ remains an important motto no matter the time of year, as you never know what is around the corner and the extent of what businesses are contending with.
Which businesses would you like to see featured in the Chronicle & Echo in 2025? Email [email protected] to submit your favourites.
5. Spread
Popular sandwich shop Spread, located in Adnitt Road, Abington, was founded by business owner Amy Adams at the start of 2023. The owner continues to give back to her customers, and she hosted her second annual giveaway to mark National Sandwich Day in 2024. 406 freebies were handed out on one day in November, giving people the chance to try Amy’s delicious creations. She is also proud to stock different sweet treat businesses every week, with Cookie Babes being the most popular among customers. Photo: Brad McLean
6. The Flavour Trailer
Award-winning gourmet burger truck business The Flavour Trailer was set up in April 2018 by partners Mario Shephard and Charley Cummings. The pair spent eight years honing their chef skills across Europe before setting up the business seven years ago, with the aim of revolutionising the way people enjoy takeaways. With multiple food trucks across the county and having cracked the market, the team took the next step to open their first venue in Staveley Way, Brixworth after months of hard work in 2024. Photo: Generate UK
7. Yellow Bus Catering
Yellow Bus Catering is an events company with a twist, with a fleet of three school buses that can be hired for any occasion. The mobile units are fully equipped and ready to serve pizzas and burgers anywhere, but the business also launched a dine-in HQ in Brixworth this year – just a few doors down from The Flavour Trailer. Located in Staveley Way, Yellow Bus offers pizzas crafted from their own dough using premium double zero Italian flour. These can be enjoyed at the unit on the industrial estate or taken away. Photo: Yellow Bus Catering
8. Coconut Paradise Cafe
Coconut Paradise Cafe, located in Gold Street Mews, opened back in April 2024 with the aim of community cohesion through Caribbean food, entertainment and events. The business is the brainchild of Ashley Samuels-Mckenzie, who believed Northampton needed a space like this – with a focus on Caribbean culture and offering a place for everyone. The team encourages people to visit Gold Street Mews, a hidden gem location for independents at the heart of Northampton town centre. Photo: @l6xx.media