Lillie’s Sandwich and Salad Bar: A young entrepreneur brings flavour and footfall to Bridlington Old Town

A new independent food business in Bridlington Old Town has successfully opened and exceeded early expectations after receiving start-up support from Invest East Yorkshire’s Business Support Services team. 

Lillie’s Sandwich and Salad Bar, run by Lillie Benson, a young local entrepreneur and university graduate from Bridlington, opened in June 2025. The business offers freshly made sandwiches, salads and sweet treats baked on site using home recipes, bringing a fresh and modern food offer to the Old Town. 

Lillie has always enjoyed baking and experimenting with flavours. After spotting an opportunity in the Old Town, she decided to take on a well-known café premises and transform it into a modern takeaway food business. 

The space has been refreshed to create a bright and welcoming shopfront that fits in with the character of the Old Town, while offering a contemporary food choice for residents, workers and visitors. 

Before opening, Lillie contacted Invest East Yorkshire to ask for advice and support. She received tailored help from the Business Support Services team, including guidance on business planning, finance and funding options.  

Support provided included: 

• Reviewing her business plan and finances 

• Guidance on funding and grants 

• Support navigating the start-up process 

• Access to free workshops for new businesses 

Lillie also attended the Is Starting a Business Right for Me? workshop to help her prepare for self-employment. 

Since opening, Lillie’s Sandwich and Salad Bar has been busier than expected. The business now employs two people and is open six days a week. 

Customers have given positive feedback, and the new business is helping to increase footfall in Bridlington Old Town. This benefits neighbouring independent shops and adds to the area’s appeal as a place to visit. 

Cllr Anne Handley, Leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: 

“It’s always inspiring to see young people taking the initiative to start their own businesses here in the East Yorkshire. Lillie’s commitment, creativity and willingness to invest in Bridlington Old Town is exactly the kind of entrepreneurial spirit we are proud to support. New independent businesses like this not only create local jobs but also help strengthen our town centres, bringing fresh energy and encouraging more people to visit, shop and spend locally.” 

Part of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Invest East Yorkshire’s Business Support Services team works closely with businesses to help them grow and develop, and to access funding where available. 

If you are thinking about starting a business, we offer free support including workshops, one-to-one advice and access to start-up grants. 

If you’re launching or growing a business and want to explore support or grant eligibility, visit: www.investeastyorkshire.co.uk/business-support

This support was delivered through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), funded by the UK Government. The funding helps local entrepreneurs like Lillie to start and grow sustainable businesses, creating jobs and strengthening town centres across East Yorkshire.