Alsop & Walker Business Development Manager Maggs Carr on the growth of artisan cheese, shifting consumer behaviours, and the challenges facing cheesemakers in 2025.

What’s exciting in the world of cheese right now?

It is exciting that there is good growth in the artisan cheese scene, with sustainability being recognised more and more for its healthy values.

What consumer behaviours are shifting, and what are you seeing from chefs, retailers or buyers that’s driving innovation?

Consumers are beginning to recognise that cheese is better sourced from the cheesemonger — they can taste the cheeses and chat about their requirements. Chefs are having to be more innovative with their dishes, and the diversity of cheese assists with this.

Alsop & Walker is known for its award-winning cheeses. How do you strike the balance between heritage and innovation in your range? Do you have examples of cheeses that reflect this approach?

Alsop & Walker are traditional cheesemakers but with a modern twist. Our Lord London is an example: a creamy soft cheese described as similar to a camembert/brie, but having the twist of flavour created by Arthur Alsop.

What are your top tips for independent retailers looking to elevate their cheese offering? Are there any common mistakes or missed opportunities you often see?

Independent retailers need to ensure their staff have the knowledge of the cheeses and what they pair with, and a basic knowledge of the cheeses.

You have a presence at Borough Market, one of the UK’s most iconic food destinations. What’s unique about selling cheese in that environment? How does customer interaction there inform your wider business?

Borough Market may be iconic for food, but it is now predominantly hot food that people come for. Sales in cheese are a battle now.

What are some of the biggest challenges and opportunities facing cheesemakers in 2025?

The challenges are costings. With the milk prices being controlled by Arla, which we, like many other cheesemakers who do not have our own herd, it is an ongoing battle for keeping costs down. The present Government have also assisted in crashing the market.

What are you looking forward to at this year’s Speciality & Fine Food Fair?

I always look forward to the show — an opportunity to meet new clients and chat with return customers, also meeting the other exhibitors.

Find out more about Alsop & Walker's range of award-winning cheeses at alsopandwalker.co.uk