Potato supplier Branston has announced that Jonathan Taylor, general manager at its South West site will retire at the end of March 2026, after almost a decade overseeing the factory’s transformation.
Jonathan will hand over to Simon Jones, current operations manager, who was promoted to general manager in January 2026 after more than 10 years progressing through the business. Jonathan joined Branston in September 2017 and has played a pivotal role in the growth and transformation of the site, in Ilminster, Somerset, which focuses on the production and packing of new and salad potatoes. During his tenure, site turnover more than doubled and the business went through a major £9 million investment programme, beginning in 2019, to upgrade facilities and introduce automation. These improvements have helped create a modern, highly-efficient operation, improving working conditions for employees and increasing efficiency.
Reflecting on his career at Branston, Jonathan said: “It has been wonderful – it’s been a lovely place to work and it’s going to be hard to leave. The team is the best and nicest I’ve worked with, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together.
“From growing the business to investing in automation and seeing the site become such a modern, efficient operation, it’s been a fantastic journey. One of the most satisfying parts has been watching the operational numbers improve week after week and of course dealing with the incredibly busy Christmas period each year, when volumes more than double, requiring the team to plan months in advance.”
After 42 years of working, Jonathan is looking forward to putting his feet up, while also planning to spend more time in South Devon, playing golf, cycling and enjoying being by the sea.
He added: “I leave knowing the site is in safe hands with Simon, who I have no doubt will lead it to even greater success.”
Simon joined the Branston South West team in January 2012 as a night shift supervisor, moving to days after two years before progressing through shift manager, production manager and operations manager roles. Following a gradual three-month handover, he will now take the lead in continuing to develop and grow the site.
Simon said: “I started at Branston as a night shift supervisor and over the years I’ve been given incredible support to progress, with Jonathan playing a big part in that. I really understand the business from the bottom up and that’s something I’m very proud of.
“Looking ahead, I’m excited about continuing to grow the site, increasing capacity, investing further in sustainability such as solar energy, and making sure we stay at the forefront of technology in our industry.”
Jim WindleChief Exective Officer of Branston, added: “Jonathan has made an outstanding contribution to Branston and to the success of our South West operation. Under his leadership the site has grown significantly, embraced innovation and consistently delivered exceptional standards for our customers. We are incredibly grateful for his dedication and wish him a very happy retirement.
“Simon’s appointment reflects our commitment to developing talent from within the business. His knowledge of the site, his leadership style and his vision for the future make him the ideal person to take the site forward.”
