There’s a lot of interest in artisan charcuterie at the moment, but have you considered stocking a high quality Black Pudding as part of your range? We caught up with Pete Mitchell, founder of The Farmer’s Son to find out more about why their Black (and White) Pudding is an excellent addition both for retail and within foodservice.
Tell us a brief history of the company
The Farmer’s Son was established in 2016 on the belief there are fewer things in life more important than the food we eat. We believe in producing exceptional quality food, sustainable and ethically produced with outstanding flavour. My family have been farming and producing food in Fife, Scotland for 300 years and we still farm today, so you could say it is in my blood.
Why is your black pudding special?
We use the finest locally sourced ingredients in our award winning range of products. Our Black Pudding and White Pudding are handmade to fresh to a 100 year old recipe from all natural ingredients, free from additives and preservatives. They are also dairy & sugar free.
What tips do you have for the best way to enjoy your puddings?
Our Black Pudding and White Pudding are incredibly versatile ingredients that taste great in pasta dishes, crumbled over pizza, added to pies, salads, sauces or even for stuffing seasonal vegetables!
What tips would you give to retailers stocking Farmer’s Son products?
Taste! Taste! Taste! If you have the opportunity to offer your customers a sample the product will sell itself. We also have product sheets, great point of sale shelf talkers & leaflets available.
What does a ‘normal’ day look like for you?
We typically start early in the morning, no two days are the same, I usually start with planning my day before breakfast and then speak with the team to see what’s happening. Whether that is on the farm or with production & orders. We have livestock on our farm which need to be cared for 365 days a year and there is also field work to do so if I’m not outside on the farm, it could be answering the telephone or email enquiries and working on new product and marketing developments. There is always so much to do!
If you weren’t in your current role, what you like to do instead?
I started The Farmers Son with the goal of owning my own Farm, so one day I hope to be full time Farming. I also love conservation & wildlife, so perhaps more time spent on tree planting & conservation projects.
What is your favourite product in your range?
Our Black Pudding is just superb
Where is your favourite place to visit & take some time out (when that’s possible!)?
I love anywhere with a great view or great sunset. Whether thats somewhere here in Scotland, Europe or North America. Eating great fresh food & seafood with some fine wine or beer.
Who do you take inspiration from in the food & drink industry?
There are a number of Farming Family “Brands” based here in Central Scotland, West Country & Northern Ireland who are doing a great job. I try and listen out for any tips or advice they have when I see them at Roadshows & food shows. Often as family run businesses they’ve been there and done something before and are open to giving advice which is always invaluable.
What is the question you are asked most often about your products?
Where can I buy it?
What food/drink trends do you think we are going to see over the next 12 months?
Local, low food miles, sustainable and ethical food trends
If you had to eat just one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Definitely Black Pudding! Not only does it taste great, it’s also a super food full of iron and zinc.
Any additional information you would like to tell us?
Family, Food & Farming obsessed!
You can find more information on Farmer’s Son’s range of puddings in both retail & deli sizes on page 33 & 73 of our Retail & Deli 20/21 Brochure.
