U.K.-based I’Anson Bros. has appointed a new commercial director as the business looks to grow its sales with its new, more than GBP20 million (US$25.2 million) state-of-the-art feed mill and distribution center.
Andrew Richardson has extensive experience within the agri, retail, equine/leisure and fuel sectors, having previously held the successful roles of managing director and group CEO at two other major agri supply companies. He will take up his new post at the beginning of March as Waterloo House, the firm’s technologically advanced new production facility, the most significant development in the U.K. feed industry this century, prepares to go into production. The appointment bolsters the senior management team, allowing Director Will I’Anson, who previously fulfilled the role, to focus on procurement as the business grows.
“I have spent my working life in the animal feed and agribusiness industry, and this groundbreaking development by I’Anson’s is one of the most exciting and forward-looking initiatives I have ever seen in the sector,” Richardson said. “With its latest technology and location, this investment will bring further serious advantages to its growing farm customers and business partners. I have long known and admired the business, not just for the quality of its products, but for the values it has, its commitment to the farming industry and its contribution to the wider rural economy.
“I am delighted to have been offered the opportunity to be part of such a significant and important project, and look forward to working with the team to make it an outstanding success. The new mill will deliver real benefits for customers, providing security of supply, the ability to meet growing demand and the development of new products to mention just a few. Increased production will also require more raw materials providing additional opportunities for arable farmers.”
Designed and constructed by Dutch milling industry specialists Ottevanger, with machinery installation by GAME Engineering, mill wiring by Apex Electrical, groundworks by HACS of Harrogate and site wiring by Preston Electrical, the facility is located on the Dalton Industrial Park in North Yorkshire. It has been designed to be as energy efficient as possible and with the least environmental impact.
It will complement the firm’s existing facility at Masham and is the largest financial investment in the more than 120-year history of the company. It is set to more than double production capacity by an additional 200,000 tons and, with the ingenuity of Chairman Chris I’Anson, it has the opportunity through its design to increase capacity significantly further to meet market demands.
“The role of commercial director is vital in ensuring we capitalize on the significant investment we have made in developing the new mill. The search to find the right individual has been long and thorough but we are delighted to have attracted someone of Andrew’s undoubted caliber,” I’Anson Managing Director Sarah Richardson said. “He not only brings a wealth of industry experience and expertise but also the ideas and the ambition to help take the business on its next stage of growth. Andrew is passionate about building and developing teams so I am sure he will be an enormous support to the talented and dedicated people we have in the business.”
