Agriculture specialist enters fourth generation with new managing director appointment
A family-run, diversified agricultural business, based in Wythall will see the fourth generation take over with the appointment of a new managing director.
Adrian Beckett (pictured) is the fourth generation of the Beckett family to take up the helm of the company, A E Beckett & Sons, which has seen significant changes in its operation over the decades.
The business was established in 1937 when Adrian’s great-grandfather moved to the area and started a dairy farm.
Having moved into egg production in the post-war years, the company expanded rapidly, acquiring new farm sites in the local area and eventually becoming one of the largest egg producers in the country.
The first farm shop opened in 1960’s when it sold eggs from the garage of the original farmhouse.
Today, after several phases of expansion, it boasts 8 speciality departments, including a full on-site bakery and confectioners, sandwich and hot food counters, butchers and greengrocers.
Becketts Farm Restaurant was opened in 1996 and has become famous for its traditional breakfasts and Sunday Carvery.
Having exited the egg production business in the 1990’s, the company began converting their agricultural infrastructure into commercial and industrial premises for which there is much demand in the district.
The company now provides over 70 premises across 7 sites and in turn, these developments bring new and congenial employment to Wythall area.
Becketts Farm is proud to be one of the largest employers in the district, with a team of over 125, and is equally proud to contribute to the local area through the support it offers to schools, clubs and charities.
Adrian rejoined the family business in 2000 having spent several years working in the marketing and advertising industry, both in the UK and in several European countries.
He said: “Our business today comprises an award-winning farm shop and family restaurant, conference facilities and a broad commercial lettings portfolio.
“We still farm around 800 acres of arable land and are constantly exploring ways to add back to the local ecology through our farming techniques and land stewardship.
“Our mission to bring fresh food and farming closer to the people will endure as I build on the strong foundations of my predecessors, and we continually strive to offer the best tasting food around.
“We push ourselves to use the freshest and highest quality ingredients and as much as possible, we source these from local farmers and producers. As such, you’re likely to find little gems and flavours that you wouldn’t normally see on larger supermarket shelves.
“We also run several family-oriented events across the year, with our Easter Barn just a few weeks away where kids and parents can come and see a wide range of farm animals up close and learn more about farming.
“I relish the new challenges ahead and look forward to working with our great team as we near our 90th anniversary.
“We will build on our good standing to support our local economy through employment and trade and support our wider community through our contributions and involvement in their initiatives.”
