A DORCHESTER entrepreneur is thinking inside the box with his new venture.

Thom Hudson, 31, has launched Bento – a new business supplying gourmet rolls, sushi and bento boxes for wholesale to retailers, bars and restaurants.

His focus is on locally-sourced, fresh ingredients with a contemporary twist.

Thom said: “I have always wanted to do something with food and felt there was a chance I could incorporate my passion for Anglo/Japanese food and produce a business plan.

“I feel that Dorchester has started to expand in many ways and this positivity has inspired me to undertake this venture with renewed optimism.”

Thom received support from SWIG Start Ups in setting up his business, accessing a government-backed Start Up Loan to finance his initial costs.

He said: “Having lived and worked in Japan, I’m able to bring my experience of this culture and a true touch of quality to the provision of Japanese food in his Bento boxes.”

Thom is keen to source ingredients from the local area to support the local economy.

He said: “I source my bread from Leakers Bakery in Bridport, my fruit and vegetables from a local producer, fish from West Country Catch, Dorchester, and my salads from the Watercress Company in Dorset which also supplies me with British-grown wasabi.

“In summary, for every product that Bento sells, around four of five local businesses are used and supported.”

Bento Gourmet Rolls and Sushi are available to buy now in selected retail outlets in Dorset.