Mackies at Taypack

Mackie’s at Taypack MD James Taylor and Mackie’s of Scotland MD Mac Mackie

Scottish food group Mackie’s has sold its holdings in the company’s premium crisp brand to its joint venture partner to focus exclusively on ice cream and chocolate.

Mackie’s at Taypack launched a range of crisps in 2009 following a collaboration between the Taylor and Mackie families.

It now produces more than two million bags every month from a facility near the Taylor family farm in Perthshire and has expanded the offering into popcorn and popped chips.

The Taylor family acquired the remaining 25% in the JV held by Mackie’s after upping its stake from 50% to 75% in a 2013 deal.

Production will continue at the Errol factory but the crisps will undergo a brand refresh next year to reflect the Taylor family’s ownership.

Mackie’s at Taypack MD James Taylor, whose great-grandfather started a potato farming business in 1927, said the next stage in its development was made possible by the success of the joint venture to date.

“We have some exciting growth plans and innovative products in the pipeline, which will ensure the continued success of the business under its new brand in the years ahead,” he added.

Double-digit growth in the 2021/22 financial year helped the business push revenues past £11m.

Mackie’s of Scotland will continue to produce a range of ice cream and chocolate at its fifth-generation Aberdeenshire farm using wind and sun-powered renewable energy.

MD Mac Mackie said: “We are delighted to have been able to play our part in establishing a quality snack business in Scotland and look forward to seeing the new brand grow and succeed.

“Innovation and progression are at the heart of Mackie’s, and we will continue the development of our premium ice cream and chocolate ranges at the heart of our success.”