Earlier this month, it was revealed that Jacksons the Baker had secured a prepack administration deal, meaning a sale had been agreed prior to administrators being formally appointed.
The speedy acquisition by Allen Jackson Bakery Limited, part of Lifft Group Limited, took just two-weeks and completed earlier this month for an undisclosed sum. This follows a difficult period, fuelled by the pandemic, conflict in Europe and rising energy costs for Jacksons the Baker.
The head office, bakery and factory shop is located in the town of Clay with a retail store in the Chesterfield town centre. Having been operating as far back as the late 19th century, Jacksons is well known among the region and local community. The rescue has secured the historical bakery’s presence in the town and safeguarded dozens of local jobs.
Commenting on the deal, Allen Jackson Bakery Limited founder and Lifft Group Limited director, Giles Allen, said it formed part of group’s strategic growth ambitions to expand its portfolio of businesses which operate commercial fleets and companies specialising in transport training.
He added that the move is aligned to the group’s ESG values and its commitment to invest in companies that can help create sustainable job opportunities in the local area.
“Jacksons the Bakers is a wonderful bakery which employs great people. It has an impressive heritage dating back more than 100 years, and a long-standing reputation for supporting the local community,” Giles said.
“Like many businesses it has faced some challenges in recent years, brought about by the pandemic and increasing operating costs, but it also has an expansive, loyal customer base and there is considerable opportunity for further growth and expansion.
“We are delighted to be bringing Jacksons into the group, and to have secured the company’s continued presence in Chesterfield. We hope everyone in the community will now get behind the business and help us to grow by buying local.”
Andrew Fielder from Chesterfield law firm Banner Jones, and Andrew McDaid from Mitchells Chartered Accountants & Business Advisers, advised Allen Jackson Bakery Limited on the purchase of the company’s trade and assets.
“At a time when there has been so much in the press about businesses shutting down, resulting in thousands of redundancies, we are pleased to have been able to work together quickly to ensure that jobs were safeguarded, and the business moves forward,” added McDaid.
Meanwhile in other news, Henstone Distillery has secured investment for a new production facility.
