Parsons Bakery moves to Employee Ownership, securing its future for generations to come
03/04/2025
One of the South West’s most beloved independent bakeries, Parsons Bakery, is embarking on a historic new chapter as it transitions to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) – ensuring its over 400 employees will now effectively own the business.
This milestone comes as the fourth-generation, family-run bakery approaches its 99th year, marking a significant shift that guarantees Parsons will remain independent and rooted in the communities it has served for nearly a century.
“This isn’t just about ownership – it’s about securing the future of Parsons Bakery for the people who make it special” said Nick Parsons, Director of Parsons. “For generations, our family has been at the heart of this business, but we’ve always known that our employees are what truly make it thrive. Now, as we take a step back, we do so knowing Parsons is in the best possible hands – those of the people who bake, serve and keep it running every day.”
Founded in 1926, Parsons Bakery has been a staple of the South West’s high streets for generations. What started as a small bakery in Clevedon, followed by a second shop in Nailsea, has grown into a thriving business with 48 locations across the region. While the bakery has modernised over the years, its core values – freshly baked goods, quality ingredients and community spirit – have remained unchanged.
Now, as ownership is passed to an Employee Ownership Trust, those values are further reinforced. The move means that the trust will hold 100% of the company’s shares, which will act as a legal entity overseeing the business on behalf of its employees. Much like the John Lewis Partnership and Aardman Animations model, non-allocated profits will be distributed back to staff, ensuring that those who contribute to the bakery’s success directly benefit from it.
Nick and Nicola Parsons stepped back from running the business a few years ago, continuing to support the senior management team with a carefully phased transition. Ensuring business as usual, the passing of the baton will take place this April. Jerry Parsons, Director is retiring.
For employees, this transition brings not just ownership but a stronger sense of investment in the bakery’s future.
For customers, nothing changes – except for an even greater commitment to quality and community. The same freshly baked goods, the same friendly faces, now with an added sense of pride from the employees who own the bakery.
The business has long embraced its Bristol and South West roots by working with renowned Bristol street artist Inkie to help liven up the walls of their shops and has exported its proudly independent Bristol spirit across South Wales, Gloucestershire, Worcestershire, BANES, Berkshire, Oxfordshire, North Somerset and Somerset.
The majority shareholders Nick and Nicola Parsons were advised by Temple Bright LLP, led by corporate partner Jonathan Poole.
This article is based on a press release issued by Parsons Bakery on 1 April 2025.
