A long-running family business has entered a fresh era this week, with new owners announcing plans to expand.
Wayne Massey and Matthew Rolinson have taken over TO Williams fine food specialists, which has shops in Wem, Market Drayton, Shawbury and Whitchurch, as well as a central bakery in Wem.
Mr Massey said he intended to follow in the footsteps of the firm’s previous owners, the Williams family.
Last week the Chronicle reported on the sale of the family firm, which employs around 60 people in the district.
The company was set up by Thomas Owen Williams in 1935, when he opened his first shop in Wem. It had been run by third generation Williams brothers, Stephen and Dan.
Mr Massey, who is from Stourbridge, comes from a commercial selling and food manufacturing background.
Mr Rolinson is already living in Shrewsbury, while Mr Massey is currently looking to move his family to the district – which he said was part of the attraction of the acquisition.
Mr Massey said: “I came across TO Williams a long time ago and was aware of the very good name of the business, which appealed to me, along with the quality of the products. The business has got great foundations.”
Mr Massey said he would like to expand the business both within and outside the county, which could create more jobs in the area. He spent Monday visiting the branches and meeting staff.
“It’s good to get in and see everybody at long last,” Mr Massey said. “I have been around all the outlets meeting and greeting all the staff and managers. It’s been very good.
“I actually acquired a very good business. TO Williams have got a very good name in Shropshire. I would like to take that forward over a bigger area.”
