C.J. Bean & Sons
- Location: Deal, Kent
C.J. Bean & Sons, a family-run business rooted in over a century of farming heritage, has been operating Links Farm since 1900. The Bean family initially focused on fruit, which they sold at London markets during the 1940s and 1950s. In the 1960s, the farm transitioned to growing vegetables, supplying local wholesalers and a nearby packhouse that handled produce for Sainsbury’s. By the 1980s, C.J. Bean & Sons expanded to include vegetable sales at the London markets, coming full circle in 2008 by running their lorry service to transport their produce once again.
Sustainability has always been a core focus at C.J. Bean & Sons. Since the 1980s, they have made efforts to reduce waste by using returnable packaging, both to cut costs and minimise environmental impact. In the early 1990s, the farm began using fleece on at least half of their vegetable crops. This practice significantly reduced the need for chemical inputs by protecting crops from pests and damage, such as pigeons, in a more environmentally friendly way.
Water conservation is also a priority at C.J. Bean & Sons. The farm utilises boom irrigation and watering during the night to maximise efficiency and minimise water waste, ensuring the crops get what they need while conserving this precious resource.
Located just a mile from the coast, the farm benefits from coastal winds, which help moderate temperatures during the summer and reduce frost risk in the colder months. This unique microclimate allows C.J. Bean & Sons to grow cauliflower year-round, 52 weeks a year, with cabbage grown in various forms throughout the year. Their savoy cabbages are available for 10 months annually, with kale, sprouts, and greens thriving during the winter months. Potatoes and onions are stored on-site to extend their availability, helping to keep the farm’s operations steady year-round.
Through innovative techniques and a commitment to sustainability, C.J. Bean & Sons continues to balance tradition with forward-thinking practices, ensuring that their produce is grown responsibly while maintaining high-quality standards.
Produce:
- Hispi Cabbage
Season:
- June – October
