Background

Hibiscus, situated in the Delapré Abbey’s Trust Billiard Room, offers an exceptional fine dining service, serving their 7-course tasting menu made up of locally sourced produce. So local, that some of the produce for the kitchen grows in their own greenhouse. The restaurant opened their doors to the public in February 2020 and are now proud to be thriving.

Challenge

To maintain the high standards expected of their fine dining offering and to empower their exceptional kitchen staff, the team at Delapré Abbey’s Trust recognised the need to upgrade the kitchen equipment. With Executive Head Chef, Bart Polinski, being named Chef of the year in the 2022 Weetabix Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards, the team knew that having the best equipment was essential to provide the kitchen staff at Hibiscus with top-tier tools that would enable them to perform at their best.  

The team knew that as a trust they needed a solution that was quick, simple, and flexible, minimising disruption while enabling them to continue delivering their high standard of service. Traditional capital outlay for new equipment would have placed pressure on other areas of the operation. The team needed a way to make vital upgrades without compromising cash flow.

Solution

Finance played a pivotal role in helping the trust achieve this upgrade for the Hibiscus restaurant. Through a tailored finance solution, the team was able to access high-quality kitchen equipment, without the need for a large upfront investment. The kitchen equipment was provided by Whitco, a trusted partner to Bluestone who are known for their expertise in designing and building high-performance commercial kitchens. By working together with Whitco the team had the new equipment they needed in a matter of days from deciding it was needed.

“Bluestone’s expert support was key in helping us upgrade essential equipment, enhancing both safety and productivity across the site. Their efficient service ensured minimal disruption while delivering long-term improvements.”

Amanda Nicols-Polinska, Head of Commercial, Operations and Projects, Delapré Abbey Trust.

Both the team at Delapré Abbey Trust and Whitco found the experience to be pleasantly uncomplicated. With Amanda, the head of commercial, operations and projects describing the experience as “smooth sailing,” with no challenges along the way. A key part of this success was the support provided throughout by Ty Branston, their Account Manager at Bluestone, who facilitated a fast and effective turnaround.

With over 25 years of experience in the commercial kitchen sector, Whitco has built a reputation for excellence in designing, supplying, and installing professional kitchens that perform under pressure. Their team ensured Hibiscus could continue to deliver an outstanding guest experience, while maximising efficiency and reliability in the kitchen.

“I’m very pleased to have been able to work with the team at Delapré Abbey Trust to be able to so quickly secure finance for their kitchen equipment. I’m glad we were able to help them invest in the up-to-date equipment they needed without putting a strain on cash flow. Being able to see the growth finance provides in action is always a joy but it’s extra good when the result is this delicious!”

Ty Branston, Account Manager, Bluestone

For trusts like Delapré Abbey, finance offers a strategic way to invest in critical infrastructure without placing strain on existing budgets. Working alongside Whitco, Bluestone made it possible for the Trust to upgrade without compromise. Giving them access to the equipment and resources needed while supporting long-term planning, sustainability, and operational resilience.  

“One of the most important things for me is showing our team that we’re investing in them. Putting them at the heart of everything we do is why this has ultimately been a success.”

Amanda Nicols-Polinska, Head of Commercial, Operations and Projects, Delapré Abbey Trust

Last updated: 3rd July 2025. Version Number: BS.202507.01CS26