Founded in Scarborough in 1885, Cooplands was acquired by EG Group in 2021 as part of the Issa brothers’ ambitious foodservice expansion strategy, which also saw them purchase fast-food chain LEON.
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Now, the bakery chain – which operates over 150 stores across Yorkshire and the North East – has been sold in a management buy-in led by David Salkeld, who will resume his role as Chairman. Also returning is Paul Coopland, representing the founding family as a Non-Executive Director, alongside longstanding CEO John Ruddock.
Local Pride Restored
The move brings Cooplands, with its proud North Yorkshire heritage, back under regional leadership. The new ownership team will aim to preserve its 140-year legacy while focusing on future growth.
John Ruddock said:
“It is with genuine pride that we announce today’s purchase, which brings Cooplands back under the management of a locally based team. This gives us the opportunity to focus on strategic growth for the future, whilst preserving the traditional values and excellence for which the brand has been known and respected.”
The business operates two bakeries and a supply network supporting over 150 stores. It employs more than 1,400 people and remains a staple of northern high streets, known for its pies, pastries, and no-nonsense window displays.
A Strategic Exit for EG Group
The sale forms part of EG Group’s wider strategy to refocus on its core retail, grocery, and fuel markets across the UK, US, and Europe. The company, founded by Blackburn billionaires Mohsin and Zuber Issa, had intended to expand Cooplands into forecourts and retail convenience spaces across its network.
While that ambition was only partially realised, the group now says it welcomes the sale as a positive strategic move.
A spokesperson for EG Group said:
“This transaction brings the Cooplands business into the ownership of a management team that is well-positioned to support it in its next chapter.”
This comes as EG continues to streamline operations following significant corporate restructuring, which included the sale of some UK forecourt operations to supermarket giant Asda, also owned by the Issa brothers.
🥧 A Slice of Northern History
Cooplands has grown steadily since its humble beginnings in 1885 as a pork butcher and pie shop. Over the decades, it has absorbed regional competitors, expanded into new towns, and received investment to accelerate growth.
With the bakery now once again in the hands of local leaders, customers across the North can expect continuity in the flavours and values they’ve come to love.
📌 Quick Facts:
- Founded: 1885, Scarborough
- Stores: 154 (predominantly in Yorkshire & the North East)
- Employees: 1,400+
- Previous Owner: EG Group (2021–2025)
- New Owner: Coopland & Son (Scarborough) Ltd (via management buy-in)
