Leeds cheesemonger backs UK Small Business Week after swapping boardroom for cheeseboard

Stephen Fleming, founder of George & Joseph Cheesemongers in Chapel Allerton, is supporting UK Small Business Week, a nationwide campaign celebrating the contribution small businesses make to communities across the UK. More information can be found at entrepreneurscircle.org/sbw.

Before opening the shop, Stephen spent years working in IT, eventually becoming an IT Director. While successful, he found himself wanting to build something more personal and more connected to people.

That search led him in an unlikely direction.

“I wanted to create the kind of cheese shop I wished existed,” said Stephen.

“There’s something brilliant about standing behind a counter, cutting a piece of cheese by hand, telling the story of where it came from and watching someone discover something they genuinely love.

“I didn't just want to sell cheese. I wanted to create a place where people could slow down, enjoy food, ask questions and feel part of something local.”

Since opening, George & Joseph has become a fixture in Chapel Allerton, helping customers discover British, European and Yorkshire cheeses while supporting independent cheesemakers and producers.

The business has grown beyond retail, hosting tasting events, running a monthly Cheese Club, creating wedding cheese towers and supplying gifts across the country.

Earlier this year, George & Joseph was named North East Regional Winner at the Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards 2026.

Despite the recognition, Stephen says the greatest reward is seeing people discover something new.

“The best bit is still the simple bit,” he said.

“Someone comes in not knowing what they want, tries something they've never had before and leaves happier than when they arrived.”

Like many independent retailers, the business has faced significant challenges in recent years, from Covid and rising costs to changing shopping habits and pressure on the high street.

Stephen believes local businesses survive because they offer something bigger than convenience.

“Small businesses aren't built on spreadsheets alone,” he said.

“They're built on relationships, belief and a willingness to keep opening the door every morning.”

George & Joseph has become known locally for bringing people together through food, with tasting events and community gatherings helping create connections as well as customers.

“At its best, a small shop isn't just a place that sells things,” said Stephen.

“It's a place that creates connection. That's what we try to do with cheese.”

Nigel Botterill said:

“As a Yorkshireman born and bred in Leeds, I love seeing independent businesses like George & Joseph thriving.

“Businesses like Stephen's give places their character. They support local producers, bring people together and create the sort of community spirit that makes high streets worth visiting. That's exactly the kind of business UK Small Business Week is designed to celebrate.”

UK Small Business Week runs from 1 to 7 June and will see businesses across the country taking part in local events, social media activity and community campaigns celebrating independent firms and entrepreneurship.