Cheese exporter Somerdale International, based at Westpark 26, Wellington, has been awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade. It’s for Somerdale’s role as a key exporter of high quality British cheeses and dairy products to over 50 countries around the world. Over the past six years the company’s overseas earnings have increasing by 73%.
Somerdale International was founded in 1990 by Stephen Jones and Ernie Waldron. The company now has a turnover of over £32 million, of which exports represent c.94%. It provides an effective route to the international market for over 250 British cheeses made in some of the country’s leading creameries – including traditional Cheddars, blue cheeses, flavoured cheeses and traditional hand-made, artisan cheeses.
Today, it is the leading exporter of British cheese to the USA with shipments leaving for New York every week. It has also grown a presence in key markets such as China and the Far East, the Caribbean, Australia and emerging markets such as the Middle East & North Africa and Brazil.
Commenting on the award Nairn Glen, Chairman of Somerdale International, said: “We are extremely proud to have won the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade. The Award is testament to the experience and expertise we have accumulated in more than 25 years of exporting to all parts of the globe; the skill and dedication of our staff; and the excellence of our partner suppliers who produce some of the very best British cheeses and dairy products.”
This is the second time Somerdale International has won the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade, having also received it in 2009.
Congratulations to all the managers and staff at Somerdale for their Award.
A local company of this calibre exporting all over the world with quality products just goes to show what can be achieved and much to be proud of.. Well done again.