150 KeyStore retailers will receive training to become mental health ambassadors as part of JW Filshill’s 150th anniversary celebrations. Scotland’s oldest independent food and drink wholesaler is marking its big birthday with a raft of activity based around the theme ‘Delivering Success’ that champions sustainability, innovation, community, and wellbeing.
The company, which began as a confectionery manufacturer in Glasgow’s Gallowgate in 1875, now spans five generations and is based at a purpose-built 120,400 sq ft distribution centre at Westway Park near Glasgow Airport.
To mark its milestone anniversary the firm aims to raise £150,000 for six charities, which represent large demographics of the communities it serves, as part of its anniversary 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
On 27th April in Glasgow, 150 Filshill directors, colleagues, customers, suppliers and family members will take part in the Kiltwalk, Scotland’s largest mass participation walking event with over 178,000 people taking part since 2016. The company’s involvement will represent the Kiltwalk’s largest-ever corporate attendance.
In terms of Filshill’s sustainability goals, the company had pledged in 2020 to cut its carbon emissions by 50% by 2030. However, it has revealed that it has reached this target five years early, boosted by its relocation to the new Renfrew site, significant investment in electric HGV vehicles, solar panels, and transitioning to HVO fuel for all diesel-powered operations at Westway.
During 2025, the wholesaler will also ramp up its commitment to corporate technology within the business and seek innovative solutions to boost efficiency across the business, including AI. Simon Hannah, Filshill’s Chief Executive Officer, has recently qualified as an AI trainer, and is keen to work with suppliers and customers to leverage AI for mutual benefit across data analysis and business processes as part of the company’s co-prosperity strategic approach.
The company has also committed to investing in a software platform that will assist greatly in tracking Scope 3 emissions.
In June, it will hold its second Filshill Family Wellness Day, to which all staff and their families will be invited to enjoy a day dedicated to fun, connection, and celebrating the people who make the Filshill family so special.
The celebrations will culminate in a 150th Anniversary Celebration Dinner in Glasgow on 9th October, hosted by comedian Fred MacAulay with entertainment from the Red Hot Chilli Pipers.
Hannah said: “Celebrating 150 years is 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 just 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.”
