Blackfriars Bakery: Proudly Baking in the UK Since 1988

Blackfriars Bakery has been crafting a delightful array of flapjacks, muffins, cake slices, cookies, and more since 1988. VSL Trade have introduced their renowned flapjacks to the App, and the feedback so far has been fantastic! We had the pleasure of speaking with the Director, Mike Madylus, to delve into the rich history and enduring legacy of Blackfriars Bakery.

“Our established team here at Blackfriars have been specialising in making and baking delicious long shelf life, ambient, individually wrapped bakery products including flapjacks, muffins, cake slices, cookies and much more since 1988. All our products are proudly manufactured to the highest quality BRCGS accreditation standards at our family-owned bakery in Leicestershire, UK.”

1. Can you share the origins of Blackfriars and any key moments in the business’s journey so far?

“Blackfriars Bakery started in 1988 as a frozen vegetarian foods business that also sold tray-baked flapjacks that were delivered fresh, before eventually becoming a full-time bakery business a few years later due to the success of the flapjacks and slices. As the popularity of our products grew we started producing individually wrapped products in the early 1990s which later expanded into other product categories such as muffins and cookies. In 2009 Blackfriars relocated from its original site within the city to new larger premises in south Wigston Leicester where we reside to this day.”

2. What sets Blackfriars apart from other similar products in the market? Are there any unique ingredients or production methods that you use?

“We get daily feedback about how much people enjoy our products, with many long- term loyal buyers and fans of our product. Our iconic friar logo stands as a symbol of our heritage and brand personality. Customers love us for our range and product, with many loyal to the taste of our flapjacks that offers that right balance of sweetness and rich oat taste without being overtly sugary and sweet.”

3. How has your product range grown over the years, and which flavours or products are most popular?

“Blackfriars has an extensive range of products with new product innovations and taste flavours being released each year. More recently we have released a line of smaller 50g Vegan and gluten-free oat bars in response to customer’s wants and needs for more healthier snacking. We have also released a range of 90g flapjacks in new contemporary flavours such as Cookies and Cream and Salted Caramel. These go hand in hand with our best-selling classic ranges of flapjacks such as our Bakewell and our original flapjack.”

4. What are your plans for the future of Blackfriars Flapjacks? Are there any upcoming product launches or market expansions that you’re excited about?

“Whilst we can’t say too much, Blackfriars has a number of exciting new products in the range that is looking to release over the next 12 months and beyond and is investing money in sales and marketing to make sure your favourite snacks are available at shops or distributors near you.”

For more information about Blackfriars Bakery, please visit the VSL Trade App.