Daylesford Organic, owned by Lady Bamford, has reported a £3.6 million loss in the latest financial year, citing inflationary pressures and minimal revenue growth. This comes in stark contrast to the company’s pandemic-era growth and profitability.
This sharp decline follows a modest loss of £291,000 the previous year, representing a troubling reversal from the company’s earlier success. Daylesford Organic, a prominent name in Britain’s organic farm retail sector, attributed the worsening financial situation to a ‘tough trading environment’ exacerbated by widespread inflationary pressures. The company’s revenues showed minimal growth, rising only 2% to £50.2 million in the latest financial year, a stark contrast to the 15% growth seen the previous year and a 27% increase in the year ending March 2021.
The retailer operates four stores in some of London’s most affluent areas, including Sloane Square and Marylebone, along with its flagship farm shop in the Cotswolds. Known for its local produce, such as £8 bunches of asparagus and £10 packets of biscuits, as well as luxury homeware and garden products, Daylesford has struggled to maintain its pandemic-era sales momentum.
Owned by Lady Bamford, wife of Tory donor and JCB chairman Lord Bamford, Daylesford Organic has faced significant challenges but remains committed to continuing operations despite the financial losses. Lady Bamford has pledged to provide financial support to the business ‘if necessary,’ as stated in Companies House filings. In recent years, Lady Bamford has been expanding her business interests, including the opening of a new wellness club set within Daylesford’s 3,500-acre organic farmland.
In a 2023 interview, Lady Bamford explained her selective approach to membership, emphasizing the need for a serene and exclusive environment. Despite the current financial setbacks, Daylesford Organic plans to invest further in its farm site. Future developments include an events space aimed at creating additional growth opportunities. The Cotswold location already offers a variety of classes, such as flower arranging, to attract visitors and enhance customer engagement.
Despite facing significant financial challenges, Daylesford Organic remains focused on long-term growth and sustainability. With Lady Bamford’s financial backing and continued investment in new ventures, the company aims to navigate the current economic difficulties and emerge stronger.
