Baking chain diversifies after acquiring Perns of Helmsley

THE new owner of a Yorkshire deli and butchery has said it will be “business as usual” after buying the business as a going concern.

Thomas the Baker bought Perns of Helmsley from the owners of the Star Inn at Harome earlier this month.

John Thomas, managing director of Thomas the Baker, said: “Having reassessed their business priorities, Andrew and Jacquie Pern invited us to purchase Perns as a going concern, and we will continue with the same staff and the same top-quality local produce from the same top-notch local suppliers.

“This is a successful business offering a range of excellent products and we have no plans to change that.”

Thomas the Baker has been baking across York, North Yorkshire and Teesside for more than 20 years and the company said it is keen to maintain the standards set by the Perns at the deli and continue its commitment to Yorkshire produce.

Mr Thomas added: “As bakers, we already source up to 70% of our produce from Yorkshire producers and this remains a key priority at Perns too.

“The business will continue to be known as Perns of Helmsley until Christmas and we’ll also carry on supplying The Star Inn with all its meat.”

Mr Thomas said the new acquisition will allow the company to gain valuable experience, supporting its plans to expand into other food retailing activities.