Butlers becomes UK's largest independent producer of soft cheese

Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses has acquired Hampshire Cheese Company, making it the largest independent soft cheesemaker in the UK

The fourth generation firm acquired the producer of Tunworth and Winslade for an undisclosed sum.

Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses has invested significantly in its soft cheese capacity in the last two years, with own-label and branded soft cheeses like Button Mill and Kidderton Ash.

Hampshire Cheese Company, a multi award-winning artisan cheesemaker, was founded in 2005 by Stacey Hedges. It supplies leading chefs, Michelin restaurants and premium independent retailers.  

Matthew Hall, owner of Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses, says: "Bringing two incredible cheeses like Tunworth and Winslade into our family is super exciting and consistent with our soft cheese strategy. 

“The quality and reputation that Stacey and her team have established for Tunworth and Winslade is something we will be proud to nurture with their loyal customers. Over the years, Stacey has shared our mission to drive the British cheese renaissance in the UK and we are privileged to bring Tunworth and Winslade into our family, continue on that journey and get more of the amazing cheeses being made in Britain, to more people."

Butlers has maintained momentum in its soft cheese strategy as it moves on from a serious fire at its office and packing site in November 2023. The fourth-generation family cheesemakers were turning milk to cheese at the dairy within hours of the fire and ensured its range of farmhouse soft cheeses were delivered to customers in time for Christmas.

Butlers’ range of blue cheeses including flagship brand, Blacksticks, were back in supply in early February.