Heck to return to full family ownership after growth surge

HECK! based at Kirklington, near Bedale, is in the process of buying back shares from its investor Panoramic, ending an 11-year investment partnership and moving towards complete control by the Keeble family.

The company, known for its sausages, burgers and mince products, has seen a surge in demand, reporting 50 per cent year-on-year growth and out-performing the category, according to the latest Kantar market data.

Jamie Keeble, co-founder of HECK!, said: “Our partnership with Panoramic has been fantastically supportive and productive.

“It’s now reaching the natural end of its term, bringing the business back to full family ownership.

“We are excited to celebrate the success of the investment period, while strengthening HECK!’s foundations for the future.”

According to the company’s latest filed accounts, turnover rose by 30.6 per cent to £32.2 million in the most recent financial year, with operating profit reaching £1.29 million.

The results cap a period of operational upgrades and product innovation, part of a broader strategy to enhance manufacturing, efficiency, and retail presence nationwide.

The success has been a major factor in overall branded sausage category growth.

The company recorded more than 50 per cent growth in product spend and a 45 per cent rise in volumes over the past year.

In one retail partner, Heck accounted for 63 per cent of all category growth, and its overall market share climbed by 4.85 per cent.

Expanded national distribution, up by 19 per cent, has brought the brand into more homes, with customers buying Heck products more frequently than ever before.

The company is the only brand in its segment to report increased loyalty and repeat purchases—up by four per cent—while its three nearest competitors have seen declines.

New product lines, such as chicken and pork rashers, have played a key role in growth, with these categories posting more than 1,000 per cent year-on-year increases.

The strong financial performance comes despite ongoing pressures facing UK manufacturers.

During the year, HECK! absorbed rising costs due to increases in the National Minimum Wage, higher National Insurance contributions, packaging taxes, and labour market challenges.

The company continued to invest in automation, branding, and new product development.

Upgrades to the production line have improved throughput and reliability, reduced dependence on hard-to-fill roles, and strengthened supply to retailers.

Mr Keeble said: “Filing these accounts marks the end of one chapter and the start of another – a once in once-in-a-generation moment.

“It gives us the freedom to think long term, move decisively and keep pushing the boundaries of innovation.

“We’re building a resilient British manufacturing business ready for the next 50 years.

“Our strategy has been about clarity, consistency and commitment: one company plan, refreshed mission and values, and the people systems to make them real.”

Looking ahead, the company expects further momentum in FY26, underpinned by continued innovation and sustained investment in UK production.

HECK!is a multi-generational, family-owned brand that supplies major UK retailers with premium sausages, burgers, and related products.