J.O. Sims are celebrating 125 years in business; a company with an inspiring history and a bright future ahead with so many more exciting plans to look forward to.
The entrepreneurial spirit that established J.O. Sims as an expert in fruit 125 years ago still exists today with 4th generation family member Christopher Sims at the helm of the business.
The first 94 years of trading saw the business grow to become one of the UK’s largest importers of fruit from Europe and the US. However, it was when Christopher took on the role of Managing Director in 1990 that J.O. Sims became the fruit farmers as you know them today. Worldwide, J.O. Sims now farm over 1,000 acres of cherry and apple orchards and are the UK’s largest supplier of fresh and dried cranberries. This well established and trusted family business looks to continue its journey of success into the next 125 years
Experts in cherries
Christopher was the driving force behind the formation of cherry farming partnerships across 4 continents, enabling J.O. Sims to increase the volume of cherries they could supply and ensuring they had a hand in managing the quality too. J.O. Sims own the largest fresh cherry pack house in the UK and their latest venture in 2021 saw them take over the management of their own UK cherry farm; Broomfield Ridge in Worcestershire. This latest agreement marks an expansion to the Sims’ UK cherry ventures, as they look to achieve their goal of 52 week availability of fresh cherries.
State of the art facilities and innovation
In the UK, J.O. Sims own their own state-of-the-art fruit breaking and blending facility, whilst their European operations produce best in class dried apple and infused dried fruits.
In 2021 J.O. Sims completed the construction of a new modern Innovation Centre at its Spalding site, a move which saw them welcome experienced Development Chef & Food Consultant Lawrence Brackstone, who joined them as Product Development Manager. The new Innovation Centre will ensure food excellence continues to be at the heart of the business and will drive new market and business opportunities across all divisions; fresh, snacks and ingredients, ensuring J.O. Sims remains market leader for the next 125 years and more…
With thanks
Christopher Sims, MD would like to say some thanks:
“Achieving 125 successful years in business is not easy and it certainly couldn’t be done without the amazing support of our supply partners that we have forged relationships with across all areas of our business in fresh fruit, ingredients and healthy snacks. Our customers, of course have been a huge part of our success too; trusting us time and time again to supply the best-in-class products.”
“I would like to thank our loyal staff, whose energy, enthusiasm, knowledge and hard work has meant that we can continue on our inspirational journey. There are endless possibilities for new product developments in fruits and I am looking forward to where the next 125 years takes the business.”
