Shepherds Purse paints Harrogate blue as cheese group undergoes re-brand

The soft blue cheese is the first to be launched since founder Judy Bell handed over the reins of the Thirsk-based company to daughters Katie Matten and Caroline Bell.

Shepherds Purse has appointed Leeds-based packaging and branding firm, Robot Food, to deliver the re-branding and packaging redesign project. The new brand will be rolled out over the whole range over the next six to nine months.

Mrs Matten said: “Caroline and I are delighted and proud to launch our first cheese, Harrogate Blue, and are keen to see the reaction of our customers to the taste and quality of this cheese, as well as to our new look.”

Mrs Bell, who owns the business, has moved to the position of chairman, while Mrs Matten and Miss Bell have become directors. Mrs Matten has been making cheese for 15 years and Miss Bell returns to Shepherds Purse after five years at Apple, spending time in both the retail and corporate divisions.

Miss Bell said: “I am excited to be back working alongside my sister Katie to continue the passion, dedication and commitment that mum and the team have ingrained in to Shepherds Purse.

“It’s an exciting time for us and we believe the re-brand successfully expresses our values not only based on where we have come from, but also the integrity of where we are going.”

Shepherds Purse, founded more than 25 years ago, is best known for its Yorkshire Blue and has a range of handcrafted cheeses made from ewe’s milk, cow’s milk and buffalo milk.

The business has a turnover of £1.2m and employs 20 people.