from our Chairman

In a year which has seen monumental change on a global scale, it’s often hard to imagine how what we do on a farming estate in South Aberdeenshire can have an impact on the world around us.

However, upon writing this report and reflecting on our progress, I take great pride in the relentless efforts of our team. Like many businesses, we have felt the challenges brought upon us by covid-19, Brexit and the war in Ukraine but we have weathered the storm well.

As a family-owned business, we have a clear sense of purpose, mission and values and over the years we have built a reputation for doing the right thing. Not only are we proud of this legacy but I truly believe that it is these solid foundations which get us through.

At our core, Macphie is focused on achieving sustainable and profitable growth that provides jobs and creates wealth in the local area, rather than maximising short-term returns for shareholders.

It brings me great delight that this year we were able to recommence operations in our North Lanarkshire factory after a temporary shutdown due to the impact covid-19 had on sales. The grand reopening saw us deliver a £4million refurbishment programme and create 40 new jobs in a part of the world that has experienced a number of permanent factory closures.

This year also saw my nephew Ed Widdowson join Macphie’s board of directors. Ed first began working for the business in 2017 and in April he was promoted to take a seat on the executive board. Ed brings fresh enthusiasm to our leadership team and I’m delighted to see the next generation of our family supporting the growth of this business.

Together we have made some brave decisions and in this last year we have introduced a number of new initiatives to benefit our people, our communities and our environment which we have outlined in this annual report.

Alastair Macphie, Chairman