Whiteford Visits New Pitsligo Social Enterprise

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford has praised Fraserburgh Development Trust, after a tour of the John Smith and Sons bakery in New Pitsligo.

Dr Whiteford met with Ian Watson, Chair of Fraserburgh Development Trust, and General Manager Andy Leiper, before taking a tour of the current facility and meeting staff members.

Eilidh Whiteford MP, Andy Leiper with
Fraserburgh Development Trust Director Ian Watson

The family business was established in 1903, and remained in family ownership until earlier this year, when it was sold to Fraserburgh Development Trust for conversion into a social enterprise. The business employs 25 people locally, and sells baked goods across the north-east of Scotland. The Trust plans to replace the current premises with a new, state of the art bakery within the next two years, at a site close by.

Speaking afterwards, Dr Whiteford said:

“These are truly exciting plans, and a long-term blueprint for a business that is both socially and financially sustainable. The Smith family deserve congratulation for building and developing the business over the 20th century, and Fraserburgh Development Trust deserve credit for taking it into the 21st.

“Naturally, I am pleased to hear that those who currently work at the bakery will keep their jobs, and that further opportunities may arise when the business moves to its new premises. As part of my visit, I was able to view the plans for the new bakery. The building is set to be truly innovative, and I would like to wish Fraserburgh Development Trust the best of luck in their funding applications.

“I look forward to seeing the business develop in years to come. And I look forward to enjoying John Smith’s butteries long into the future!”