Donald Russell, the renowned butcher holding a Royal Warrant to supply the household of King Charles, has announced the loss of 120 jobs following its acquisition by a rival food company. The move has been described as a devastating blow to the local economy in Aberdeenshire.
Business Sold to DukesHill
The company, which secured its Royal Warrant in 1984, has been purchased by DukesHill, a ham producer based in Shropshire. As part of the deal, Donald Russell will close its operations in Inverurie, Aberdeenshire, where it was founded in 1974. The brand, website, and intellectual property have been acquired by DR Fine Foods, the owner of DukesHill.
Reactions from Local MP
Harriet Cross, the Conservative MP for Gordon and Buchan, expressed deep concern over the job losses. “It’s a huge loss that Donald Russell will no longer have a presence in Inverurie,” she said. “Founded in Aberdeenshire, Inverurie is its birthplace and formed the heritage of a once-thriving local business. This announcement marks a dark day for both our meat industry and our rural economy, with the loss of 120 jobs.”
She urged both the UK and Scottish governments to address the challenges faced by the industry. “Both governments need to urgently address the barrier of business rates, rising taxes, and energy costs so butchers, as well as the wider agricultural supply chain, can survive these unprecedented challenges.”
CEO's Perspective
Mark Gallagher, chief executive of DukesHill, offered a more optimistic outlook. “We’ve always admired Donald Russell and share many similarities; the same passion for creating the highest quality food, a belief that great food starts with responsible and ethical farming, and a focus on delivering exceptional customer service,” he said. “Our priority now is on restoring Donald Russell operations, welcoming back its wonderful customers and suppliers, and investing in the long-term future of the Donald Russell brand.”
History of Donald Russell
Donald Russell was founded in 1974 and secured its Royal Warrant a decade later. The company built a prestigious client list that included Singapore's Raffles Hotel, Monte Carlo's Loews Hotel, and the Orient Express. The closure of its Inverurie operations signals the end of an era for the local community and the wider meat industry.
