Fifth-generation wholesaler drives support for industry
SCOTTISH food and drink wholesaler JW Filshill is set to mark its 150th anniversary this year with a raft of activity based aorund its theme of ‘Delivering Success’.
As part of this theme, the firm looks to champion sustainability, innovation, community and wellbeing across the Scottish retail industry.
From its origins in Glasgow’s Gallowgate area as a confectionery manufacturer in 1875, the firm has come on leaps and bounds over the years in service of its independent KeyStore convenience stores across Scotland and Northern England.
The fifth-generation wholesaler has said it remains firmly rooted to its core values while aiming to embrace a bold new vision for the future, with an ambition to build commitment in modern technology, whilst support some key charities across the Scotland.
Filshill said it has a plan to raise £150,000 for six charities this year alone which help represent large demographics of the communities they serve as part of the celebrations. Chosen by Filshill staff, the charities are:
• CHAS (Children’s Hospices Across Scotland)
• Dementia Scotland
• Cancer Research UK
• MND Scotland
• SSPCA (Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)
• GroceryAid
During 2025, the wholesaler also aims to ramp up its commitment to tech innovations within the business, including with AI solutions.
And on the firm’s sustainability goals, Filshill has said it has achieved its target to cut emissions by 50% by 2030 a whole five years early, boosted by its relocation to the new Renfrew site, a significant investment in electric HGV vehicles, solar panels and transitioning to HVO fuel for all diesel-powered operations at Westway.
Further to this, Filshill has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting staff mental health across the business by providing training for 150 KeyStore customers to become mental health ambassadors in their communities and joining the company’s existing 35 trained mental health first-aiders.
All of the firm’s anniversary celebrations will culminate with a 150th Anniversary Celebration Dinner in Glasgow on 9 October, hosted by comedian Fred MacAulay with entertainment from the Red Hot Chilli Pipers.
Simon Hannah, chief executive at JW Filshill, said: “Celebrating 150 years in an incredible milestone for the Filshill family. It’s a moment to reflect on our heritage while looking ahead with ambition and purpose.
“‘Delivering Success’ captures our dedication to sustainability, technology, community and wellbeing as we shape the future for the next generations of the Filshill family and beyond.
“We plan to collaborate closely with our customers, suppliers and other colleagues as we set the scene for the next stage of the Filshill journey.
“We’re proud of our heritage and the values that have guided us for 150 years. This year isn’t about celebrating where we’ve come from – it’s about demonstrating our commitment to ‘Delivering Success’ for our people, our customers and our communities as we move forward together in the future.”
