The Wensleydale Creamery sets sights on global growth

The Wensleydale Creamery, maker of the famous Yorkshire Wensleydale cheese, is expanding its team, with the appointment of a new business development manager to drive growth in new international markets and build global partnerships.

Gary Johnson will join The Creamery’s commercial team to undertake their ambitious global growth strategy, developing new business opportunities for The Creamery’s range of award-winning cheeses. He will draw upon his previous experience in international dairy sales and also management roles at Nestlé and Parkham Farms.

The Wensleydale Creamery exports its range of Yorkshire Wensleydale Cheese around the World, which now accounts for 14% of its business.  The majority of this cheese is exported to the USA, where Yorkshire Wensleydale & Cranberries is in particular demand.

David Hartley, Managing Director of The Wensleydale Creamery, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Gary on board and look forward to him exploring new international markets and partnerships for The Creamery. After being granted Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status by the EU in December, protecting the authenticity and provenance of our Yorkshire Wensleydale cheese, 2014 is set to be an exciting year for our business. We now look to expand our exports beyond the current 14% of our total output to put The Wensleydale Creamery brand and our range of Yorkshire Wensleydale cheeses firmly on the world map.” 

Mr Johnson added: “I’m really excited to be joining The Wensleydale Creamery, a company whose culture, brand and growth I’ve admired for many years. The business has always been at the forefront of great innovation in the cheese market and I’m eager to begin exploring areas of growth and brand reputation globally. I’m especially looking forward to approaching new international markets, securing long-term partnerships and export contracts.” 

As part of their planned export growth plan, The Wensleydale Creamery is exhibiting at the 2014 Gulfood show for the first time this year. Taking place from 23-27 February 2014 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Gulfood is the world’s largest annual food service, hospitality and retail event. Gulfood will offer The Wensleydale Creamery the perfect stage to showcase their products, explore new markets and begin to build relationships and partnerships in the in the Middle East and beyond.