The recent acquisition of a new facility aligns with Mackie’s of Scotland’s initiative to minimize the food miles associated with ice cream production. This strategic decision is also aimed at bolstering the local economy in north-east Scotland.
Located in Rothienorman, Aberdeenshire, Mackie’s views this new site as “the next evolution” in the company’s four-decade journey.
The Kintore facility is set to enhance the brand’s production capacity while strengthening connections with nearby rural communities throughout the region.
Mackie’s reports that this investment directly addresses longstanding logistical hurdles faced by the business. Historically, products meant for customers within Scotland had to traverse unnecessarily lengthy routes via third-party distribution networks.
Mackie’s managing director, Stuart Common, remarked, “This is an exciting move that strengthens our foundations and gives us greater control over how we get our products to customers efficiently and, importantly, sustainably, from right here in Aberdeenshire.”
This investment signifies a strong commitment to expanding the business, enabling it to serve more customers while adhering to its environmental principles. Common emphasized, “By bringing more of our distribution under our control here in the north-east, we can do more locally, keep skills and expertise in the region, and significantly reduce the distance our products travel – something that really matters to us both commercially and from a sustainability point of view.”
The new location will facilitate storage and shipping closer to the production site, thereby cutting down transport distances by “hundreds of miles” and enhancing both “efficiency and sustainability.”
The company recently announced a record turnover of £24.8 million, marking an 11% increase compared to the previous year, alongside a 3% uptick in profits for the financial year ending in May 2025.
Mackie’s credits this success to its broadened distribution across the UK and heightened brand visibility, as its products are now available in major retailers such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, and Asda.
Executive chairman Maitland Mackie stated, “This is a really pivotal moment in our history. After 40 years of building this business as a family, this is an important and exciting next step for us.”
He further added, “This investment is a physical demonstration of how we’re backing the business, supporting the area we call home, and making sure we’re in a strong position for the next generation.”
