Founded by Stacey Hedges in 2005, the Hampshire Cheese Company is a multi-award-winning artisan cheesemaker that has made a mark with its Tunworth and Winslade cheeses.
Effective immediately, these two soft cheeses will join Butlers’ line-up, following the acquisition of an undisclosed sum.
This move is in line with the Lancashire’s soft cheese strategy, which it has been investing into for the last few years. Butlers’ line-up already includes own-label and branded products like Button Mill and Kidderton Ash.
“Bringing two incredible cheeses like Tunworth and Winslade into our family is super exciting and consistent with our soft cheese strategy,” comments Matthew Hall, fourth-generation owner at Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses.
“The quality and reputation that Stacey and her team have established for Tunworth and Winslade is something we will be proud to nurture with their loyal customers. Over the years, Stacey has shared our mission to drive the British cheese renaissance in the UK and we are privileged to bring Tunworth and Winslade into our family, continue on that journey and get more of the amazing cheeses being made in Britain, to more people.”
The business has continued to maintain momentum despite a serious fire in November 2023 at its office and packing site. The family cheesemakers were turning milk to cheese at the dairy within hours of the fire and ensured its range of farmhouse soft cheeses were delivered to customers in time for Christmas.
Its range of blue cheeses were back in supply by early February, including its flagship brand Blacksticks.
In other news, ProVeg UK has cast doubt onto UK Government dairy alternative label guidance.