Popular Lutterworth takeaway celebrates 20 years of success in the town

Birthday cake was handed out to customers to mark the landmark moment
The staff at Papadoms celebrate their 20th anniverary.The staff at Papadoms celebrate their 20th anniverary.
The staff at Papadoms celebrate their 20th anniverary.

Regular customers of one of Lutterworth’s most successful takeaways had the chance of a slice of birthday cake this weekend.

Specialising in Indian food, popular family-owned Papadoms in Linden Drive celebrated an impressive 20 years in business.

Owner Akhter Meah started in the back kitchen of the now demolished Balloon pub and the dream almost ended before it had begun.

Just as he was building his reputation and customer base, the landlord evicted him without notice or explanation, causing him to lose his equipment, ingredients as well as the cooking facility.

“They were gone after three years but we are still here after 20!“ said Meah, adding:

“It was very fortunate for us that the old video store had closed, so there was a shop available to rent immediately.”

Now twenty years on, Akhter who runs the business with his younger brothers Altaf and Anwar is reflective about the challenges of running a small business. Meah said: “There are always lots of problems but my business has always been steady; we have never had to struggle.

"I am very grateful to my customers who have supported us and we would like to say a big thank you to everyone in Lutterworth who we’ve met during the last 20 years, especially our regulars.”

As head of the family, much responsibility lies on him and the success of the business. Meah moved to the UK from Bangladesh in 1991 and offers some sage advice to anyone thinking of starting a food business:

“I studied for a BSC in management so I have some good knowledge and that helps, but the most important thing is experience.

"Get some experience of working in the food industry before starting your own business."

Papadoms is open Tuesday to Sunday from 5:30pm to 11:30pm.

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