Family-owned Trewithen Dairy, based in Cornwall, has announced a major investment to build further its regional distribution capacity and capabilities. The investment will see the establishing of a new, dedicated wholesale division; the opening of a new, strategically located, distribution centre at St Columb and the purchase of another, successful, family-run Cornish business, dairy produce supplier Lillie Brothers. The move will significantly enhance Trewithen’s ability to distribute its much-loved Cornish dairy range and complementary products to retail and food service customers across Cornwall and the South West.
Trewithen’s new wholesale division will benefit from having its own experienced and dedicated management team who will be focused on delivering excellent products and service to customers. The new division will be complemented by the purchase of Lillie Brothers, the successful dairy supply business based in Falmouth, which serves over 2,000 home delivery customers and 1000 business customers each week. While the new St Columb distribution centre and Lillie Brother’s Falmouth base will mean that Trewithen is well positioned to serve both customers in Cornwall and into the wider South West.
Francis Clarke, Managing Director of Trewithen Dairy, says: “The purchase of the successful Lillie Brothers business, combined with the investment into a new distribution facility at St Columb, marks an important next step in our continued commitment to providing excellent products and service to customers across the South West.
“We are delighted to be working alongside the Lillie family to continue the legacy of Lillie Brothers and thank them for giving us the opportunity to combine two great Cornish family businesses.
Francis continues: “Part of this development is our continued investment in people, establishing a dedicated and experienced management team to focus on the specific requirements of our customers in the region. Graham Lillie, will join this team alongside experienced Trewithen colleagues and new recruits.
“The combined locations of St Columb and Falmouth give comprehensive distribution coverage across Cornwall and out of the county. For the foreseeable future the Lillie Brothers business will continue to operate from their Falmouth base and we will take our time to combine the best of both businesses, in our focus to always improve what we do.”
Trewithen Dairy has grown from a small scale set up on the Clarke family farm in 1994 to the point where it now works closely with 35 Cornish dairy farms and its produce is found in independent retailers and food service customers throughout Cornwall and Devon. It is also found on the shelves of many national retailers, including Asda, Morrisons, Tesco, Waitrose and Costco. Still owned and run by the same family, Trewithen Dairy has grown its business through its passion and commitment to delivering the highest quality Cornish dairy products to its customers.
Jack Lillie, founder and Managing Director of Lillie Brothers, said: “From our humble beginnings as doorstep milkmen in 1974, alongside my brother Fred and son Graham, we are exceptionally proud to have grown the business to serving over 2,000 home delivery customers and 1000 business customers each week. I believe our success is based on quality Cornish dairy products, excellent delivery service and our dedication to going the extra mile for our customers.
“We have worked with Trewithen Dairy and the Clarke family for over 15 years and as I step into retirement, I am delighted to see them taking on the business for future prosperity. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our dedicated team of staff and brilliant customers for many pleasurable years working together.”
Lillie Brothers, based in Falmouth, recently expanded its home delivery service in response to the needs of the local community during the first lockdown. They continue to deliver their wide range of dairy and fresh produce directly to consumers’ doorsteps and new customers can sign up online at www.lilliebrothers.co.uk.
For more information about Trewithen’s products and services visit www.trewithendairy.co.uk follow them on facebook and twitter and on instagram
