A Family Legacy Baked to Perfection
Imagine a family-owned business spanning four generations and still growing strong. Meet McGhee’s Family Bakers, a beloved Scottish brand headquartered in Glasgow, renowned for its iconic morning rolls, potato scones, and other cherished baked goods. The bakery's story is not just about delicious baked treats but also about family, resilience, and the journey of a young professional stepping up to preserve a legacy.
From Accountant to Commercial Director
Aisling McGhee, a former chartered accountant with years of experience at KPMG, decided to trade spreadsheets for sourdough. A crucial family governance project revealed that for McGhee's to remain family-owned and operated, the next generation needed to take charge. Aisling stepped into the role of commercial director with the goal of blending traditional values with modern strategies to steer the business into its next chapter.
Scottish Roots, National Recognition
McGhee's Family Bakers is deeply ingrained in Scottish culture, supplying not only to Glasgow but also to supermarkets and food-service providers across Scotland and beyond. Their hard work and commitment to quality recently earned McGhee’s a spot in the Worldpanel by Numerator’s 2025 Scotland Brand Footprint rankings, where it was ranked the second "most chosen" food brand, right behind Irn-Bru. This achievement speaks to its place at the heart of Scotland’s thriving culinary industry.
The Driving Force Behind the Brand's Growth
Aisling attributes McGhee’s success to a combination of passion for family heritage and strategic initiatives. She emphasizes the importance of staying connected with changing customer tastes, as seen with their hit product—the sourdough roll. “Health-conscious customers are looking for more options, and we're happy to adapt," she said.
The bakery’s mission is simple yet profound—feeding Scotland while keeping a family business thriving for future generations. This ethos is evident in their diverse product range, which includes everything from empire biscuits to caramel shortcake, proving their enduring appeal to customers across all demographics.
Overcoming Challenges and Looking Forward
Running a family business isn’t without its trials. As Aisling notes, “The government’s lack of consistent support for traditional industries like ours is a challenge, especially for businesses on the edge of being classed as 'large.'” Despite these hurdles, her optimism remains unwavering, crediting patience and teamwork as essential factors in maintaining McGhee's hard-earned success.
Aisling’s ambitions include further expanding beyond Scotland and securing a legacy for her children, ensuring the family name continues to stand for quality and tradition. As she confidently says, “The sense of ownership of having your name above the door makes you strive to be the best."
Discover McGhee’s Best-Sellers
Want to experience McGhee’s magic? Try their famous Morning Rolls, available at local supermarkets or shop online for nationwide delivery. Perfect for breakfast sandwiches or a savory side, these rolls have become a staple in many households.
Lessons from Family and Business
When asked about her greatest lesson, Aisling shares, “Patience is a virtue. Running a family business is a long-term commitment, like steering an oil tanker—progress takes time.” This wisdom is critical for young entrepreneurs looking to make their mark in legacy industries.
As McGhee’s Family Bakers looks to the future, its combination of heritage, innovation, and passion ensures that it remains a cornerstone of Scottish life for generations to come.
