First Naafi store on board RFA ship opens
The Royal Fleet Auxiliary has welcomed its first-ever Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes (Naafi) shop on board one one of its vessels, bringing a touch of familiarity and convenience to the crew.
The shop is now open on RFA Lyme Bay which is getting ready to set sail to the Indo-Pacific as part of the Littoral Response Group South deployment.
In a post on the social media platform X, RFA Lyme Bay said the "spanking new" shop would be a boost for morale and a first for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary.
The shop, which was declared open in a ribbon-cutting ceremony, will provide the ship's company and embarked forces with typical corner shop goods such as chocolate, crisps and toiletries.
RFA Lyme Bay is one of three Bay-class RFA vessels - the class allows personnel to move from ship to shore using onboard Landing Craft Vehicle Personnel and Landing Craft Utility vessels.
The Naafi said on social media that it was excited to have begun its journey with the Royal Auxiliary Fleet, and also announced plans to open shops on board RFA Mounts Bay and RFA Argus.
The Naafi has been providing services to the Armed Forces since it was established by the Government in 1920, and already has a presence on board most Royal Navy ships.
It operates a wide range of facilities including stores, cafes and recreational centres to support and enhance the wellbeing of military personnel and their families stationed both in the UK and abroad.
This year Naafi has expanded its services to British high streets, having opened its first UK high street Naafi café at Catterick Garrison in March, and another two cafés in Winchester and Gibraltar the following month.
The not-for-profit organisation operates in various locations and even runs a restaurant on the grounds of Dover Castle.
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