Our story

Jim Hoad learnt his trade whilst training as a butcher with Sainsbury’s in 1954.

In August 1959, Jim Hoad purchased the butcher business from his godfather for £5, agreeing to repay its existing debt. In return, the previous owners assisted with daily operations. The business thrived, and Jim ran the shop for the next 12 years.

As a larger corporate competitor moved into the area, customer demand shifted, prompting Jim to focus on sausage production. To support growing demand, John Hoad became the company's first distributor, delivering to local retailers and customers.

Demand grew steadily and the Korker quality reputation spread to the point where they could no longer meet demand in the small butcher’s shop. In 1981, Jim decided to build a factory for wholesale production. The family empire was beginning to take shape with Jim’s children often helping Dad out at the factory in the holidays, learning the family business as mini-apprentices. This year, Jim’s son Robert started working in the business full-time in the new factory.

Jim's son, Ed, joined the company and has gained extensive experience across all aspects of the organization. His in-depth knowledge and expertise make him well-suited for his current role as Managing Director.

In 1989, due to high demand, Jim decided to introduce the production of hand-made sausage rolls. These have grown the product range significantly and contributed to continued growth and success.

In 2010 saw the new product launch of the Korker Burger was seen. In 2014, Jim retired and handed down the business to his children, with Ed and Robert overseeing production and the daily running of the business.

2018 saw the rebrand of Korker Sausages but the now-famous pig remains centre stage. 2019 marked the 60th anniversary of Korkers but was sadly tainted by the passing of Jim in February. 

With the business expanding further into the wholesale sector, it was decided to extend the existing factory building. The Planning Application was submitted.

With the planning granted, the building began. Robert has taken a well-deserved retirement leaving Ed as managing director.

India Hoad, Ed's daughter, officially joined Korkers as the third generation in the family business, taking on the role of Head of Sales and Marketing. 

Additionally, after three years of development, the factory extension has been completed, marking a significant milestone for the company's growth and production capabilities.

In a short time, we’ve introduced an exciting variety of new products to meet our customers’ needs. From our Gluten-Free Halal Chicken Sausages to our rich new flavour of our Caramelised Onion Sausages and Sausage Rolls, the Korker range has never been broader.