LibDem Leader, Ed Davey visits Mamoosh Bakery

Liberal Democrat leader visits Mamoosh Bakery, Newhaven

On 16 January, we were pleased to welcome Sir Ed Davey, Leader of the Liberal Democrats, to Mamoosh, alongside James MacCleary MP for Newhaven and Lewes District.

Their visit was a chance to share our story — from baking our first batch of pittas at home to growing into a local bakery and riverside deli and café — and to talk honestly about the challenges of running a small, family-owned food business in today’s climate.

Coffee and fresh pittas

Over coffee and fresh pittas, we spoke about the realities facing independent food producers and hospitality businesses, including rising costs, National Insurance contributions, new employment laws, staffing, energy prices and the importance of continued support for local enterprise. We also shared how much community has played a role in Mamoosh’s journey from early days at farmers’ markets to the opening of Mamoosh Riverside last summer.

MPs enjoy the art of pitta bread making

During the visit, Einat and our head baker invited both MPs into the bakery for a demonstration on how pitta bread is made traditionally. With national TV cameras crews and photographers on hand, the two MPs enjoyed kneading dough, dusting pittas, and using traditional methods for baking. They got their hands floured and learned some basic methods, skills and the care that go into every batch of pittas.

Running a small business

Sir Ed and James also took time to meet our wider team and hear about the work that goes on behind the scenes each day. Conversations touched on skills, training, local employment and how small businesses like ours contribute not just economically, but socially, to towns like Newhaven.

An opportunity to showcase our produce

We were grateful for the opportunity to showcase what we do and to highlight the value of independent, family-run businesses rooted in their local communities. Visits like this matter — not just for visibility, but for meaningful conversations about how places like Newhaven can continue to thrive.

Thank you to Sir Ed Davey and James MacCleary MP for taking the time to visit us, and to our brilliant team for keeping everything running smoothly (and the coffee flowing) as always.