Just four years ago, Linwood Raker comprised a small team of six industry experts and, despite challenging times ahead, decided investment in premises, high performing equipment, and innovation would be the only way to drive the company forward.
The team secured a new site in Huthwaite, Nottinghamshire close to Junction 28 of the M1, only to be faced with lockdown, which meant the steady demand for products from the retail bakery, hospitality and airlines dropped by 40%.
Faced with a host of set up and logistical challenges, and associated costs, the team persevered and devised a strategy to ‘add value’ and ‘change’, by innovating a specialist service, providing knowledge and choice in the best practice of Baking Paper.
Recognising the industry’s need to focus on sustainability and, anticipated upcoming changes to waste legislation for small businesses, Linwood Raker devised the brand ‘Food Paper’, launched as the UK’s first sustainable and fully recyclable silicone baking paper.
The expert team now provides an in-demand service for the baking and food industry. They recommend and prepare both standard and bespoke papers. Options are available by size, shape, and quantity to suit each customer’s needs.
Once the product gained approval, it was quickly specified by national bakery retailers and well-known food outlets. The launch generated hundreds of enquiries from the baking sector. Many sought to switch to a sustainably sourced and recyclable paper. They aimed to reduce waste without compromising on quality.
In 2024, the business expanded with newly refurbished adjoining premises and major investment in new machinery. This upgrade has doubled production capacity. It has also created 12 new staff roles.
Recently, the business won Sustainability Initiative of the Year at the Baking Industry Awards 2024, alongside Greggs and Biffa. We also collected Fast Growth Business of the Year at the East Midlands Business Masters 2024. Our Managing Director, Richard Smith, has been shortlisted for Green Leader at the East Midlands Leadership Awards 2025. He is also a finalist for Manufacturing Leader at the same event.
Richard Smith, Owner of Linwood Raker says
“We’ve effectively doubled our turnover and then doubled it again over the last 40 months. As a manufacturing business, this has meant expanding our site and investing in new equipment. We have also focused on recruiting, training, and retaining local talent. This achievement has only been possible thanks to our dedicated team. They bring passion for the business and work hard to ensure we always deliver unbeatable service to our growing customer base. We look forward to anticipated further growth.”
More information about Linwood Raker can be found at www.linwoodraker.co.uk
Want to try Food Paper? Request your trial here
Written by Susanna Holt
