By Pauline Stewart
Barry and Bernie, the dynamic duo behind Barry’s Fruit and Veg, are more than just your average grocers—they are community heroes. With over 14,000 followers and 100% recommendations on Facebook, this team has become a lifeline for many in North Shields and beyond. Whether you need fresh produce, meat, shellfish, or even concert tickets, their little shop on the corner is a bustling hub of warmth, humor, and good food. This year marks a milestone as they celebrate their 2-year anniversary of serving the community.
During lockdown, Barry and Bernie didn’t just keep their shop running—they saved lives and lifted spirits by delivering fruit and veg straight to people’s doors. “First time ever getting a delivery service—great, and the soup deal is amazing. Will definitely be ordering again,” says one happy customer, Margy. Their dedication, from early mornings at the market to thoughtful customer care, shines through in every interaction. Bernie’s pick for the “Oscar” of fruits? The exotic Horned Melon, or Kiwano. This spiky fruit might seem prickly at first (literally), but inside, it’s a bright, delicious surprise—much like the spirit of this shop! Barry, on the other hand, focuses on the community-driven, homey side of things. The pair are known for their banter, humor, and a customer experience that turns grocery shopping into a fun, memorable outing.
Customer Vicky Reilly shared her experience: “I have had a delivery today—sirloin steaks, new potatoes, and salad onions. We had the steak tonight, and it was beautiful with the new potatoes. Thanks so much for my items and fast delivery. Great selection!” This is just one of many stories where Barry’s fruit and veg not only meet expectations but go above and beyond to deliver top-notch quality.
Their shop is not just about buying produce; it’s a pillar of community support. Regular customers rave about their generosity, like Theresa Parvin, who says: “I spent £12 and came away with a huge bag of fruit and veg, plus a massive sack of spuds and onions, which were delivered to my door. Excellent quality and superb service—what more can you ask for?” Barry’s team is known for giving away surplus stock to those in need, spreading kindness with each carrot and onion sold. They even signpost customers to other community resources, always with a smile and a joke. This dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed—they’ve already won Business of the Month and are up for Business of the Year, thanks to a community that knows how much they’ve given back.
Barry’s day starts long before the shop opens—at 3 a.m., to be exact. Battling cold mornings and flying apples, Barry and his team fight to select the freshest produce for the local community. Next time you’re in, ask Barry about the secret market language he uses—it’s a code you’ll only learn if you’re a regular! From making North Shields laugh to feeding it with fresh, high-quality produce, Barry’s Fruit and Veg is a cornerstone of the community. Their journey has been one of generosity, grit, and good old-fashioned fun.
