One of Scotland’s oldest and most respected independent food and drink wholesalers, JW Filshill, is marking its 150th anniversary in 2025 with a raft of activity based around the theme ‘Delivering Success’ that champions sustainability, innovation, community, and wellbeing.
With a proud heritage spanning five generations, Filshill remains firmly rooted in its core values while embracing a bold vision for the future. From its origins as a confectionery manufacturer in Glasgow’s Gallowgate in 1875 to its position today as an award-winning wholesaler, Filshill has continually evolved to serve independent KeyStore convenience stores across Scotland and the north of England.
The award-winning company, which relocated from Hillington to its purpose-built 120,400 sq ft distribution centre at Westway Park near Glasgow Airport in March 2023, aims to raise £150,000 for six charities which represent large demographics of the communities they serve 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
As part of its community fundraising efforts in its 150th anniversary year, 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. On 27th April in Glasgow, the company’s involvement will represent the Kiltwalk’s largest-ever corporate attendance.
In terms of Filshill’s sustainability goals, the company – which in 2020 pledged to cut its carbon emissions by 50% by 2030 – can reveal 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.
Meanwhile, Filshill will build on its established mental health and wellbeing agenda by providing training for 150 KeyStore customers to become mental health ambassadors in their communities, joining the company’s 35 existing trained mental health first-aiders to create a supportive environment for colleagues and customers.
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.
Culminating with a 150th Anniversary Celebration Dinner in Glasgow on 9th October, hosted by comedian Fred MacAulay with entertainment from the Red Hot Chilli Pipers, the year promises to honour Filshill’s remarkable journey while setting the scene for a future of ambition, growth, and positivity for the company.
Simon Hannah
Simon 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.”
