In 2007, Matt and Nina embarked on an exciting new venture, opening a Gastro Pub down in Kelham Island in Sheffield. But as their business grew, they couldn’t help but notice the stark contrast between their customers happily paying £15 for a main course and the same community that was home to 3 food banks.
This realisation sparked a shift in their perspective.
“It just didn’t feel right,” says Matt Bigland, CEO of Blend Family. “We were running a successful business, but we couldn’t ignore the food insecurity issues right on our doorstep”.
Fast forward to 2024, Matt and Nina have taken bold steps to address these concerns.
They opened Cambridge Street Collective, a food hall in the heart of Sheffield, using it as a platform to deliver their vision of a more equitable food system. This initiative is complemented by the successful launches of Cutlery Works in Sheffield, Blend Family’s first food hall launch, and Kargo MKT in Manchester.
“We wanted to create a space that celebrated the diversity of our community, while also tackling the root causes of insecurity,” explains Nina Bigland, COO of Blend Family. “It was time to make a real difference”.
And that’s exactly what they did. The Blend Culinary Foundation was born with the long-term vision of eradicating food insecurity throughout the city.
By sourcing from local producers, providing affordable meal options, and partnering with community organisations, Matt and Nina were putting their principles into practice.
Matt and Nina Bigland, Blend Family
But the momentum didn’t stop there. Inspired by the bustling food halls of Asia, the duo set their sights on expanding their mission to a global stage. And now, they’re thrilled to announce the launch of Tower Bridge Collective, their latest food hall venture, located in the heart of London.
“Tower Bridge Collective is more than just a place to eat,” says Matt. “It’s a culinary and environmental revolution, where great food, sustainability, and community all come together in a way that’s never been seen before.”
With 13 carefully curated food partners offering authentic dishes from around the world, Tower Bridge Collective promises to be a vibrant hub that celebrates diversity and creativity.
“We’ve come a long way since our first Gastro Pub,” reflects Nina. “But our passion for food, community, and making a real difference has never wavered. Tower Bridge Collective is the next step in our journey, and we can’t wait to welcome Londoners and visitors alike to experience it with us!”
As the countdown to the opening continues, Matt and Nina’s story serves as a heart-warming reminder that with determination and a commitment to positive change, even the most ambitious dreams can become a reality.
