Meet our New MD!
As we welcome our new Managing Director, we had the opportunity to sit down with him and get to know the person leading our business into the future. Having settled into the role over the past few months, he has already immersed himself in our traditions, products, and community values. In this interview, he shares his thoughts on what attracted him to Cranstons, his plans for balancing our heritage with innovation, and some personal insights. It’s clear he brings both passion and experience to the role, and we’re excited to see how his vision will shape the next chapter of Cranstons.
Q: You’ve been at Cranstons for just over 3 months now, how are you finding it so far? Was there anything that surprised you?
A: I’m absolutely loving it so far, it’s a great regional business and the people are very talented. I received a very warm welcome from everyone. I did previously know Cranstons, but I was surprised at the depth of the customer loyalty. I think it all boils down to the traditions and heritage of the business, our customers know and remember the quality we deliver every time.
Q: So far, what is your favourite part of working here?
A: It’s got to be the fact I get to taste the delicious products regularly; who wouldn’t love that? From the new products we’re developing, to the traditional products we’re known for, I enjoy being able to try it all.
Q: What attracted you to Cranstons and the role of MD?
A: It was a great opportunity to become involved with the history of the company, and allows me an influence on creating the next chapter. Thanks to the fantastic work of our teams, the business is growing and thriving.
Q: Can you share a bit of your journey before Cranstons?
A: I am from Cumbria, but I haven’t lived here for many years. I’ve tended to work in larger companies; Heinz and Dairy Crest, for example. Right before I came to Cranstons I was running the Wensleydale cheese business for 3 years, which had a similar loyal base of fantastic customers.
Q: How do you plan to balance Cranstons’ heritage & traditional methods with innovation & change?
A: Products we’re known for don’t need to change at all; things like the Cumberland sausage or smoked bacon, for example, the method and recipes are perfect and an important part of our heritage. We’re constantly looking for customer expectations and new things they’re looking for, and trying to tailor our range to that. Whether that’s more offers in our big food halls, or taking the heart of the business (butchery) and adding new and exciting products.
Q: What excites you most about the future of Cranstons?
A: Developing new products that will continue to delight our customers, along with continuing our already popular lines of traditional products. It’s a great chance to see the business grow and develop over the coming years.
Q: What are some of the biggest challenges facing the local food & farming industry today, and how does Cranstons plan to navigate these challenges?
A: I’ve spent many years in the food industry and working with farmers. Personally, it’s about how the whole food supply chain maintains balance. We need to make sure we’re providing an environment where farmers can care for their animals, whilst still being able to make a profit. Retailers need access to the great produce this country makes. Costs are always rising, and we all need to work together to control it.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
A: I am Cumbrian born and bred – I’ve lived elsewhere for a long time so not everyone knows. My family is from Cleator Moor; in fact, my dad and brother still live there.
Q: How do you stay motivated & energised in such a demanding role?
A: It’s easy. All the people around me in Cranstons are super passionate and engaged in the success of the business.