Waitrose and Duchy Originals join forces.

Iconic British food company, Duchy Originals has joined up with Waitrose to secure the growth and future of the Prince of Wales’ venture.

Duchy Originals has given Waitrose – its most valued and long-standing client – exclusive rights to manufacture, sell and distribute Duchy Original products in a bid to increase charitable donations made by the food company.

Duchy, developed by the Prince of Wales, started in 1992 and has grown to become one of the UK’s best-known organic and natural brands. The concept behind the initiative was to create a company that helped small farmers find a new market for their goods while offering customers natural, high quality food.

The new licensing and distribution agreement will see Waitrose pay a royalty to Duchy Originals on all wholesale and retail sales, but will also enable the products to continue to be sold in independent and family-run stores.

Andrew Baker, Chief Executive of Duchy Originals, said: “This is a hugely important moment for Duchy Originals. This new partnership will take our pioneering company to the next level, accelerating the growth of the brand and amplifying its voice as a champion of sustainably grown and produced food from the UK.”

As the company is owned by a charity it has never been in a position to build reserves for growth so Mr Baker commented: “Now is the time to make the next step and this agreement is the best way for us to realise our growth ambitions.”

Mark Price, Managing Director of Waitrose, is delighted with the groundbreaking partnership. He commented: “This is a match made in heaven, creating a partnership with a shared passion for quality food, sustainable farming, excellent relationships with suppliers and for charitable giving.

“Duchy Originals’ products have always been firm favourites with our customers and we now have the opportunity to develop the range into the definitive premium, sustainable British food brand.”