Albert Bartlett and the Jersey Royal Company Have Joined Forces

Albert Bartlett and the Jersey Royal Company have joined to form the Island's largest exporter of Jersey Royals. To protect the interests of independent growers, the Jersey Competition Regulatory Authority (JCRA) placed conditions on the deal.

According to the BBC, Albert Bartlett, who operates farms in Britain, Ireland, and France, has acquired the Jersey Royal Company (JRC) from Produce Investments.

Albert Bartlett's CEO, Alex Bartlett, stated that the company has a long connection with the island, having produced and marketed Jersey Royal potatoes and “supporting the future of Jersey agriculture”.

“Our purchase of JRC enhances that level of commitment and will allow us to build a compelling and sustainable future for our combined teams, growers, and retail partners by delivering a great consumer proposition. There will be lots of hard work ahead, but it is an exciting time for the famous Jersey Royal potato,” Bartlett mentioned, cited by the above-mentioned media source.

Rachel Cook-Coulson of Produce Investments stated that they were ‘proud’ of their Jersey business and team.

“However, we have a responsibility to look forward and ensure that great tradition continues. With current pressures in the supply chain and changing market dynamics, we believe a consolidated approach to producing and marketing this unique product is needed. Following detailed discussions, we believe Albert Bartlett is best placed to take Jersey forward,” she concluded.

JCRA worked closely with all stakeholders, especially the Government who maintain close oversight and control of the Jersey Royal sector, and with independent growers and the parties to the deal to reach its decision. The Authority published its Final Decision on 25 March 2024.