Passing of Finlay’s Foods founder, James Finlay announced

The BAKO Group Limited has announced the passing of James Finlay, founder of James SA Finlay Limited, on Christmas Eve.

BAKO CEO Mike Tully described James as the “driving force” behind the company, which BAKO acquired in April 2024.

Founded in 1976, the business was established in the production of fresh ‘ready to use’ fruit pie fillings, developing over the years to incorporate fruit toppings, cheesecake toppings, fruit sauces and sweet mince.

The company also moved into the dried manufacturing process, incorporating the production of lemon pie fillings, coconut macaroons, and custards, as well as a comprehensive range of neutral, flavoured and vegetarian jelly crystals.

The company moved into wholesale trading in the early 1970s, becoming the Distributor for CSM, while in 2010 they moved into the Jam and Spread manufacturing market.

In April 2024, BAKO Group announced the full acquisition of James SA Finlay Limited, trading as Finlay’s Foods, saying the company has established a strong presence and loyal customer base, which they intend to build upon and expand.

At the time of the acquisition, BAKO Group said Finlay’s Food’s expertise in bakery products “complements our current portfolio” and opens up “a wide range of cross-selling opportunities”.

Mike Tully said James was a “force of nature” whose drive and vision were only matched by his dedication to the team.

“We are proud that Finlay’s is part of the BAKO Group of companies and will continue to run and grow the business in a way that is a tribute to one of the bakery trade’s true gentlemen,” said Mike Tully.

“James will be missed by all of us, and specifically by his family to whom we send our deepest condolences.”

A leading name in the Irish bakery trade, it employs approximately 60 people at its purpose-built site in Maghaberry, which serves a customer base that extends throughout Northern Ireland into the Republic of Ireland, as well as the wider UK, Europe and Asia.