Reflecting on their journey, Jeremy said, “My wife and I set up the On the Hoof Bistro 24 years ago in Sydenham. We also run a coffee shop at New Cross railway station.”

The business has steadily grown, with locations in Sydenham, Honor Oak Park, and most recently, New Cross Gate. Their newest venue serves not only commuters but also TfL staff and Goldsmiths students, helping the business reach a broader customer base.

Jeremy emphasised the importance of keeping their business local, noting how beneficial it is to maintain resources within the borough rather than looking elsewhere. When they took on the New Cross Gate site in 2021, it was vacant and in need of refurbishment. 

Thankfully, support from the Lewisham Council made a huge difference.

“We were fortunate enough in 2021 to get support from the Council to regenerate and rebuild a site that was previously empty. Covid was a shock for our business... we were completely devastated when our turnover ended up close to 0,” Jeremy recalled. “We are now starting to grow again, and a lot of that is because of the council’s support.”

Like many small businesses, On the Hoof faced immense challenges during COVID-19, especially with their commuter-based model. However, they have persevered and retained their 20-strong workforce. The New Cross Gate location, in particular, has allowed them to diversify their offering. “New Cross Gate is different from our other sites... we’ve been able to focus more on food,” Jeremy explained, noting the success of their homemade cakes, such as banana and courgette cakes, which are baked fresh daily.

Sustainability is also a core value for the family business. They are committed to sourcing products locally where possible and are part of the Heart of the City programme, which helps businesses reduce their environmental impact.

Looking to the future, Jeremy shared their long-term vision:
“Our plan involves expanding the business throughout Lewisham. And from our perspective, that our sons take over the business and take it through the next 25 years.”

About the affordable workspace programme

We have invested nearly £1million across Lewisham to enhance our high streets, workspaces and local business community.  

Our workspace grant programme encouraged local businesses to improve or create spaces that would either help their business, generate new opportunities for the borough and or attract people to work locally.  

For more information on the programme visit: Lewisham Council - Investing in affordable workspace and local business community

To find an affordable workspace in the borough visit: Space | SHAPESLewisham.