UK potato supplier Albert Bartlett has acquired The Jersey Royal Company (JRC) for an undisclosed sum.
The family-owned potato business has snapped up the Jersey-based potato grower from Produce Investments, another operator in the UK fresh potato segment.
Albert Bartlett said the consolidation of the island’s main producers was “seen by both businesses as key to delivering a sustainable future for the famous Jersey Royal crop, while continuing to deliver a great product for consumers”.
Headquartered in Airdrie near Glasgow, Albert Bartlett has owned operations in Jersey since 2008. Meanwhile, JRC was formed into its current model over 20 years ago and was purchased by Produce Investments in 2014.
Albert Bartlett CEO Alex Bartlett said: “We have a long history with the island in the production and marketing of Jersey Royal potatoes and in supporting the future of Jersey agriculture.
“Our purchase of JRC enhances that level of commitment and will allow us to build a compelling and sustainable future for our combined teams, growers and retail partners by delivering a great consumer proposition. There will be lots of hard work ahead, but it is an exciting time for the famous Jersey Royal potato.”
Employees at JRC are set to be integrated into Albert Bartlett’s operations, according to a statement.
Produce Investments' CFO Rachel Cook-Coulson added: “We are really proud of our Jersey business and our team, who have done a great job for our customers and in continuing the rich history of the Jersey Royal potato. However, we have a responsibility to look forward and ensure that great tradition continues.
“With current pressures in the supply chain and changing market dynamics we believe a consolidated approach to producing and marketing this unique product is needed. Following detailed discussions, we believe Albert Bartlett is best placed to take Jersey forward.”
In the year ended 31 May 2023, Albert Bartlett generated a turnover of £253m ($319m) compared to £216m the previous year, according to figures published with Companies House.
The potato business reported an operating profit of £9.3m, up from £5.6m in 2022.
