Bells of Lazonby has been selected as one of Cumbria Chamber of Commerce’s Business Heroes, celebrating the Chamber’s 25th anniversary.
The campaign shines a spotlight on businesses and individuals drawn from across the Chamber’s membership. It is a celebration of just some of the many members making a difference throughout Cumbria.
Founded in 1946 by John Bell as a small village bakery, Bells of Lazonby has grown into a major Cumbrian employer, producing premium bakery products for retailers, foodservice customers and consumers across the UK and internationally.
Almost 80 years on, the family-owned business remains proudly based in the same Eden Valley village where it all began. Today, it employs more than 400 people and operates both a conventional bakery and one of the UK’s leading dedicated free-from bakeries.
Alongside manufacturing for major retailers through private-label partnerships, Bells of Lazonby is also behind its own award-winning We Love Cake brand.
Despite its growth, the business has never lost sight of its roots.
“We believe in combining craftsmanship with innovation and taking a long-term approach to everything we do,” the company said.
That approach has helped Bells navigate significant challenges, including rising ingredient and energy costs, supply chain disruption and changing consumer demands.
Rather than standing still, the business has continued investing in its people, facilities and product development, allowing it to grow while continuing to create local employment and deliver the quality its customers expect.
The company’s people remain at the heart of its success. Many employees have spent decades with the business, reflecting a culture built around long-term careers, development and opportunity.
Bells is also committed to supporting the wider Cumbrian community. Through apprenticeships, skills development and local employment, the business contributes significantly to the regional economy.
Its We Love Cake brand recently sponsored the Barrow Raiders Ladies rugby team, supporting women’s sport and helping provide opportunities for the next generation of local players.
For Bells, the partnership is about more than sponsorship. It reflects the company’s commitment to backing organisations that make a positive difference in their communities.
Looking ahead, Bells of Lazonby is preparing to celebrate its 80th anniversary while continuing to invest in its people, manufacturing facilities and product innovation.
The business plans to build on the success of its private-label partnerships and We Love Cake, expand its presence across retail and foodservice, and explore further export opportunities.
Its ambitions may continue to grow, but the company remains firmly rooted in the community where its story began.
Michael Bell’s philosophy of the “Three Ps” – People, Product and Profit – continues to guide the business.
“If you invest in your people first, they’ll create great products, and the profit will follow,” Bells said.
It is a simple philosophy that has helped guide the family business for generations – and one that continues to shape its future as Bells of Lazonby looks towards its next 80 years.
