Yorkshire’s Iconic Bakery Cooplands Returns to Local Ownership After 140 Years
In a move celebrated across the region, Yorkshire’s beloved bakery brand Cooplands has returned to local hands following its acquisition by a group of Yorkshire investors. The deal marks a new chapter for the historic bakery, bringing ownership back to the county where it was founded more than 140 years ago.
Previously owned by EG Group, the convenience retail firm established in 2001 by the Issa brothers, Coopland & Son (Scarborough) TD was purchased by the group in 2021.
The Issa brothers, who also hold a stake in Asda, remain on the board of EG Group, which has now finalised the sale to a team of Yorkshire-based investors with deep roots in the brand’s heritage.
A New Chapter for a Historic Brand
The management buy-in has been led by David Salkeld, who will return to his former position as Chair. He is joined by Paul Coopland, a descendant of the original founding family, who will rejoin the company as Non-Executive Director.
Furthermore, long-standing team member Joan Ruddock, who has been part of the business for over two decades, will continue to lead as Chief Executive Officer, ensuring stability and continuity during the transition.
Completing the new leadership team are John Kitson, appointed Chief Financial Officer, and Steph McGinty, taking on the role of HR and Transformation Director. Together, they aim to guide Cooplands into its next era, balancing modernisation with the heritage and craftsmanship that have long defined the brand.
A Legacy of Quality and Tradition
Founded in 1885 by Frederick and Alice Coopland as a humble pork butcher and pie maker in Scarborough, Cooplands has grown into one of the region’s most recognised bakery names.
The company operates two bakeries that produce freshly baked goods distributed across 154 stores throughout Yorkshire and the North East, employing more than 1,400 colleagues.
Over the years, the brand has remained synonymous with quality, tradition, and community = values that the new owners have pledged to uphold.
Local Roots, Future Ambitions
Reflecting on the acquisition, CEO Joan Ruddock expressed her enthusiasm for what lies ahead, commenting that it is with genuine pride that they announce today’s purchase, which brings Cooplands back under the management of a locally based team with strong and established knowledge of their organisation, their colleagues, suppliers and customers.
Furthermore, this gives them the opportunity to focus on strategic growth for the future, whilst preserving the traditional values and excellence for which the brand has been known and respected for over 140 years.
Looking Ahead
The acquisition marks not only a return to Yorkshire ownership but also a renewed focus on sustainable growth and community connection.
Under the guidance of its revitalised leadership team, Cooplands aims to strengthen its regional presence, expand its offerings, and ensure that its fresh bakes continue to delight generations to come.
As one of Yorkshire’s oldest and most cherished bakery names, Cooplands’ return to local stewardship represents more than a business deal – it’s a homecoming that celebrates heritage, craftsmanship, and the enduring pride of Yorkshire enterprise.
News Credits: Yorkshire bakery business acquired from EG Group
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