History

Where it all began...

1932
Mr Ellsey started brewing malt vinegar in the famous brewing tower at Heaton’s old brewery.

1937
Ellsey’s bought the malt brewing tower and premises, and George Orwell wrote ‘The Road to Wigan Pier’.

1938 – 1945
The brewing tower survived Hitler’s bombs, and George Formby, a famous Wigan lad, entertained the troops!

1959
A little factory called Heinz started up next door.

1960
The Williams family era begins – John Williams, Mr Ellsey’s nephew, joined the team.

1966
As our footballing heroes beat the Germans under the twin towers, the local council do what Hitler couldn’t – they destroy our famous brewing tower!

1960s-1970s
Wigan Casino was in its heyday, and Ellsey’s expand their product range beyond malt vinegar.

1980
Wigan Casino closed, and Ellsey’s continue to expand the variety of vinegars imported from Europe.

1995
As Wigan Rugby continues to dominate the world of rugby league, Vic Arthur, Ellsey’s longest-serving employee, retires after 63 years.

1998
The local council once again try to wipe out Ellsey’s by a forced demolition order of our premises, but we come back stronger, with new, purpose-built premises, and a new MD – John’s son, Tim.

2008
After 10 years as MD, Tim takes the opportunity to pursue other interests and hands over to Shaun Roberts, the first non family member to take control of the company.

Anne O’Neill decides to follow in Tim’s footsteps and retires after 27 years of dedicated service.

2009 onwards
Shaun, Phil and Wendy take over the helm, and are looking forward to continuing the traditional values of Ellsey’s whilst providing the widest range of quality vinegars in the UK.