GCH Fishmongers in Bedford is proudly celebrating its 10th anniversary at the end of the month, marking a decade in its location on Newham Street.
The business was founded on 29 July 2015, by Gary Hooper and his youngest son George, who, although just 18 at the time, was already well-versed in the seafood trade.
Both had extensive experience with Tesco, where Gary was the national Seafood Specialist and George worked at the company’s head office. Frustrated with the corporate world, the father-and-son duo decided to open their own fishmongers in their hometown of Bedford.
They took over a vacant shop on Newnham Street, strategically positioned next door to the popular Lingers butchers. After weeks of renovations, installing refrigeration, an ice machine, and a fresh fish counter, GCH Fishmongers officially opened and it was an immediate hit with the customers.
Read: Great Bedfordian: Gary Hooper
As demand grew, it quickly became clear that Gary and George needed help. In October 2015, Gary’s elder son Oliver joined the team, allowing the business to expand further, particularly into supplying local pubs and restaurants.
When the Covid-19 lockdown struck, GCH Fishmongers faced unprecedented demand as residents turned to local suppliers.
Long queues became a familiar sight, stretching down to Peacocks on the busiest days. To help meet the surge, Gary’s wife Caroline and his sister-in-law Sharon joined the business, solidifying its claim to be a true family-run operation.
By 2021, GCH’s wholesale side had outgrown the Newnham Street shop, with up to five tonnes of fish moving through its single front door.
A small unit in Great Barford was acquired to better serve restaurant and pub clients, but by 2024, that too proved too small.
The business then secured a larger wholesale unit in Marston Moretaine, undergoing a full refurbishment to include commercial chillers, freezers, and food-grade fittings.
As the anniversary approaches, GCH Fishmongers continues to thrive and is marking its decade in business with special customer offers. Online shoppers have the chance to win a £100 voucher to spend in-store, while in-store customers will be entered into a prize draw to win a meal at one of GCH’s wholesale clients.
They will also be taking part in this weekend’s St Cuthbert’s Street Festival, joining their near-neighbours to celebrate Bedford’s thriving independent business community.
“We’re so proud of what the business has become and the support we’ve received from the community,” said founder Gary.
“We’re excited for what the next decade will bring and look forward to celebrating with our customers.”
GCH Fishmongers invites the Bedford community to join in the celebrations — and to toast to the next 10 years of success.
