More than just figures: how a strong financial partnership empowers Mons Cheesemongers to grow with confidence

Learn how a relationship built on trust, proactive support, and well-structured processes has given one of London's most respected independent cheesemongers the financial clarity to run a tight operation, make smarter decisions, plan confidently for the future, and expand further without losing sight of what makes them truly special and worth celebrating.

Background

Mons Cheesemongers has been a fixture of London's food scene since 2006, when they first set up at Borough Market. Nearly two decades on, they have grown into one of the capital's most respected independent cheesemongers, with multiple shops and market stalls across South London, an online shop, and a reputation built on deep product knowledge and an uncompromising approach to quality.

It is a business that runs on passion and precision in equal measure. The product is perishable, the margins are tight, and the revenue cycle is sharply seasonal, with November and December driving a significant portion of annual trade. Getting the finances right is not just good practice, it is essential to keeping the business healthy all year-round.

The challenge

Specialist retail is demanding. Stock has to move, costs have to be managed carefully, and cash flow can shift significantly from one month to the next. For Mons, the challenge was not just staying on top of the day-to-day numbers, it was making sure those numbers told a clear and reliable story throughout the year, including the quieter months when the business still had to run efficiently and prepare for the spike ahead.

As the business grew and further expansion became a real possibility, the financial demands grew with it. Securing a bank loan to fund a new location meant presenting a credible, well-evidenced financial picture to lenders. That required more than accurate books. It required a partner who understood the business well enough to support the process.

Our approach

We work with Mons on a fully integrated basis: accurate books, consistent reporting, and a close working relationship that gives them clarity at every stage.

The starting point was building a set of processes that work reliably for both sides: clear timelines for when information is required, consistent monthly reporting, and a structure that makes it easy to stay on top of performance without it becoming a burden on the team.

Given the seasonal nature of the business, particular focus is put on cost planning across the full year, helping to smooth the impact of the quieter periods and ensuring that the strong winter trading translate into a genuinely healthy annual position.

When Mons decided to take the next step and expand with a new location, we worked directly with their bank and loan manager, providing the documentation, context, and financial narrative required to support the application.  

This is what a genuine financial partnership looks like in practice. Not just reporting on what has happened but being present and useful at the moments that actually matter.

What the director says

“Working with Folio has been really positive for Mons. Having a strong relationship with their team and clear, reliable financials we can trust have made a huge difference to how we run the business. It’s meant we can focus on growing without second-guessing where we stand financially.”

Jon Thrupp, Director

Benefits delivered

Key takeaways for independent retailers

The best financial partnerships are built on trust and a genuine understanding of your business. If you're ready to find more than just an accountant, let's start the conversation.