Graham’s The Family Dairy, Scotland’s largest independent dairy company and the UK’s seventh biggest liquid milk producer has announced the first non-executive director appointment to its family board.
Simon Thomson, legal and commercial director of Cairn Energy PLC, the Edinburgh-based oil and gas exploration company, has joined the board of Graham’s The Family Dairy from today (5 February).
Forty-four year-old Thomson, a law graduate from the University of Aberdeen, becomes the first non executive director of the Bridge of Allan-based dairy in its 71 year history. Founded in 1939 by the grandfather of the current managing director, Robert Graham, the family has farmed in the Stirlingshire area for five generations.
Explaining his decision to invite Thomson to join the board, Robert Graham said: “As a family business, a firm commitment to product innovation and the traditional values of integrity, loyalty and excellent service has ensured Graham’s The Family Dairy continues to grow.
“While our long-term focus remains to look after our farmers, customers, suppliers and 290 staff, Simon’s board level commercial experience and strategic focus will be invaluable as together we explore new opportunities to drive market share in Scotland and the UK.”
In 2009, the family launched its first range of vanilla ice-cream, further extending its brand offering that includes an award winning range of Graham’s Gold, Organic and Scottish Dairy milks, creams and butters. Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Waitrose, Lidl and Asda and the Peckham’s delicatessen chain are among leading outlets that carry its locally produced, deliciously fresh products.
Referring to his appointment, Thomson commented: “I very much look forward to working with Robert Graham and his family to make an effective contribution to the continued success of Graham’s The Family Dairy as it explores new opportunities within the competitive UK dairy sector.”
In its year-end results to 31 March 2009, Graham’s The Family Dairy revealed turnover increased by twenty per cent to £40m (2008: £33.4m) with pre-tax profits of £820,959 (2008: £721,953).
