Members of the Baker family visited Purina PetCare’s Sudbury factory to celebrate 175 years since Edward Baker founded his flour business in Suffolk in 1851 - and mark the start of the Bakers journey in the county, now one of Britain’s best-known dog food brands.
Today, the Baker’s name continues locally as part of the Purina portfolio, with Bakers dog food still produced at the company’s Sudbury site, which employs around 200 people. Over the past decade over £42.6 million has been invested into the factory.
The anniversary celebration reflects Purina’s long-standing commitment to UK manufacturing and local communities. Today, the company continues to create value across the UK through British-made products, local jobs and long-term partnerships with farmers, suppliers and the communities in which it operates.
During the visit, family members toured the factory and met colleagues working at the site, reflecting on a connection to the Sudbury area that stretches back generations.
Edward Baker bought Cornard Mill and adjoining land at Great Cornard by public auction in 1851, establishing a milling enterprise that would remain closely linked to the area and ultimately evolve into the Bakers brand known today.
Charles Baker, direct descendant of Edward Baker and 5th Generation, said: “It’s been incredibly special to mark this 175 anniversary here in Sudbury, with the support from Purina. My family’s connection in Great Cornard began with Edward Baker in 1851, where he purchased at auction the Cornard Mill, the dwellings and the main family house, where I now live. The local heritage behind the Bakers name means a great deal to us, so it’s wonderful to see history recognised and celebrated where it all began. All good businesses and products develop over time, and I’m proud that the family name lives on, as well as the business remaining in the local community, now based in Sudbury.”
Emily Turner, Brand Manager at Bakers, said: “Bakers has a long-standing connection with Suffolk, so marking 175 years with the Baker family at Purina’s Sudbury factory felt like a fitting way to celebrate its roots. Our products continue to be made here in Sudbury, and it is important to recognise the local heritage that remains such a meaningful part of the brand.”
To celebrate the anniversary, Bakers is giving Suffolk dog owners the chance to put their much-loved companion in the spotlight through a county-wide search for a hero dog, with the winner receiving a year’s supply of Bakers dog food. To enter, owners should send a photo of their dog and a short explanation of what makes them so special to [email protected] by 9th September 2026.
Terms and conditions are available at: BAKERS 175 YEARS COMPETITION TERMS AND CONDITIONS | Purina UK
