CARLISLE'S own bakery business, Pie Demand, has secured a tasty contract with TransPennine Express. 

Passengers aboard TransPennine Express' first-class carriages, spanning routes from Manchester to Liverpool, all the way up to Glasgow and Edinburgh, will soon have the pleasure of indulging in Pie Demand's renowned sausage rolls - with a choice to opt for the classic pork and caramelised onion or the vegan alternative. 

Owners Laura and Brian Twigg expressed their elation at the partnership, emphasising the opportunity to share a taste of Carlisle with commuters across the UK. 

"We're really excited, the potential of being associated with these types of customers and businesses is huge," Laura said. 

News and Star: Pork and caramelised onion and vegan rolls coming to TransPennine Express carriagesPork and caramelised onion and vegan rolls coming to TransPennine Express carriages (Image: Supplied)

"We also supply Fenwick Newcastle, having them and now TransPennine is a real feather in our cap.

"We're really proud and excited about the future prospects," Laura said. 

In preparation for the increased demand resulting from the contract, Pie Demand will be closing its current storefront on Water Street to public while opening a new deli-style shop just 200 yards away in a more prominent location, promising to have 'even more on offer'.

"The space at the moment is just out of the front of the bakery, so to have a proper dedicated shop coming is great.

"We've worked hard to build up a good name and brand that people recognise, fingers crossed that will transfer. 

"Pies will still be the main focus in the deli, pies and sides, but we're going to do cakes and bakes, breakfasts, deli sandwiches and coffees," Laura said. 

The new deli aims to be open in around six weeks time. 

Having only started the business in 2019, Laura said: "We laugh and joke, we never had plans and have always gone with the wind in how the business has taken us.

"It's been an exciting journey and a definite learning curve." 

News and Star: Pie Demand will be bringing even more of their delicious produce to their new deli-style shop. Pie Demand will be bringing even more of their delicious produce to their new deli-style shop. (Image: Pie Demand)

As part of its expansion plans, Pie Demand is also on the lookout for new staff to fill roles in production and retail outlets.

Anyone interested is encouraged to pop in for a chat with Laura and Brian. 

Pie Demand has quickly gained recognition for its high-quality products, earning them a nod in an upcoming awards show, finalists in the Cumbria Life Magazine Awards as well as gearing up to submit three products for the prestigious Great Taste Awards later this year. 

You can follow Pie Demand on social media here.

Or why not read a review from one of our News & Star reporters here.