A Family
Business
Our story began in 1936 when Albert Sheppard opened the first Sheppard family butcher's shop. Albert was the eldest of three brothers: Albert, William, and John. During the Second World War, William and John served in the British Army. Following their demobilisation, they returned home and joined Albert in the family business.
Together, the brothers helped build a strong reputation for quality and service, working side by side until Albert's death in 1962. Following this, a new company, Sheppard Bros, was formed and successfully traded under that name for the next ten years. In 1972, the business entered a new chapter with the launch of John Sheppard Butchers, continuing the family's commitment to serving customers with the highest standards of quality and care.
From retail to contract catering
During the 1960s and 1970s, Britain's eating habits were changing, and John Sheppard recognised the opportunities these shifts presented. As demand from the catering and hospitality sectors grew, the business began to evolve from its traditional retail roots.
The first step was to adapt the existing retail premises to serve a dual purpose, supplying both local customers and an expanding portfolio of catering clients. As the wholesale side of the business continued to flourish, a dedicated facility was established in 1967, creating the company's first standalone premises focused exclusively on serving catering and corporate customers.
This strategic move laid the foundations for the business's future growth and strengthened its position as a trusted supplier to the hospitality industry.
John Sheppard today
In 1978, the company relocated to its current premises, marking another significant milestone in its development. To support continued growth and maintain the highest standards, the site underwent a major refurbishment and modernisation programme in 2002, bringing the facility up to full EC export standards.
Since then, the business has expanded further through the acquisition of neighbouring buildings, increasing the total site footprint to over 24,000 square feet and providing the capacity needed for future growth and investment.
Despite its expansion, the company remains firmly rooted in its family values, with six members of the Sheppard family actively involved in the business today. From its beginnings as a local butcher's shop, the company has grown into a trusted supplier of high-quality meat and poultry products to a diverse range of customers, including leading hotels and restaurants, national catering organisations, schools, universities, sports stadia, hospitals, social services departments, bakeries, and food manufacturers.
Supported by a modern fleet of more than 35 refrigerated vehicles, we deliver fresh meat and poultry products throughout the majority of England and Wales, maintaining the quality, reliability, and personal service that have been at the heart of the business for generations.
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