Branston, one of the UK’s leading potato suppliers, is preparing for a change in leadership at its South West site in Ilminster, Somerset, as general manager Jonathan Taylor retires after nearly a decade at the helm.

Taylor will step down at the end of March 2026, handing over to Simon Jones, who was promoted to general manager in January following more than ten years with the business. The transition follows a three-month handover period.

Taylor joined Branston in September 2017 and oversaw what the company describes as a period of significant transformation at the Ilminster facility, which focuses on the production and packing of new and salad potatoes. During his tenure, site turnover more than doubled, while a £9 million investment programme launched in 2019 upgraded facilities and introduced greater levels of automation. According to Branston, the upgrades created a more modern and efficient operation while improving working conditions for employees.

Reflecting on his time at the company, Taylor said: “It has been wonderful – it’s been a lovely place to work and it’s going to be hard to leave. The team is the best and nicest I’ve worked with, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together.

“From growing the business to investing in automation and seeing the site become such a modern, efficient operation, it’s been a fantastic journey. One of the most satisfying parts has been watching the operational numbers improve week after week and of course dealing with the incredibly busy Christmas period each year, when volumes more than double, requiring the team to plan months in advance.”

After 42 years of working, Taylor said he plans to spend more time in South Devon, pursuing golf and cycling and enjoying coastal life.

He added: “I leave knowing the site is in safe hands with Simon, who I have no doubt will lead it to even greater success.”

Jones joined the Branston South West team in January 2012 as a night shift supervisor, later moving to days before progressing through shift manager, production manager and operations manager roles. His appointment underscores Branston’s focus on internal talent development.

“I started at Branston as a night shift supervisor and over the years I’ve been given incredible support to progress, with Jonathan playing a big part in that. I really understand the business from the bottom up and that’s something I’m very proud of,” Jones said.

“Looking ahead, I’m excited about continuing to grow the site, increasing capacity, investing further in sustainability such as solar energy, and making sure we stay at the forefront of technology in our industry.”

Jim Windle, Chief Executive Officer of Branston, paid tribute to Taylor’s leadership. “Jonathan has made an outstanding contribution to Branston and to the success of our South West operation. Under his leadership the site has grown significantly, embraced innovation and consistently delivered exceptional standards for our customers. We are incredibly grateful for his dedication and wish him a very happy retirement.

“Simon’s appointment reflects our commitment to developing talent from within the business. His knowledge of the site, his leadership style and his vision for the future make him the ideal person to take the site forward.”

The leadership change comes as Branston continues to invest in capacity, sustainability and automation across its operations, reinforcing the strategic importance of its South West site within the UK fresh potato supply chain.