Established in 1884, EDME is celebrating its 140th anniversary this year. The company, situated on the banks of the River Stour, was founded by maltster Robert Free. One of the early employees was George Webb, a lorry driver and grandfather to Jo Townes, the current customer service supervisor at EDME. In the accompanying photo, George can be seen driving the company’s lorry.
EDME continues to play a vital role in the country’s food chain, converting locally grown cereal grains into nutritious ingredients for bakers and other food manufacturers. According to Mark Hodson, the managing director of EDME, if you have ever tasted bread with malted ingredients, chances are you have sampled a taste of EDME’s products. The company’s malted and wholegrain ingredients are used by bakeries of all sizes across the country and even internationally, to enhance the taste, texture, and nutritional value of their baked goods.
Surviving two world wars, the Great Depression, and numerous political and economic challenges, EDME has proven to be a resilient and enduring company. This is due in large part to the generations of dedicated employees, as well as the strong partnerships with growers and customers. As Mark Hodson puts it, “It is the fantastic team and our great partners who deserve a tribute in our 140-year anniversary.”
In recent years, EDME has made significant developments, including the establishment of a test center and a research and development facility, the acquisition of state-of-the-art mixing and blending equipment, and the addition of a gluten-free mill. To commemorate their 140th anniversary, EDME organized an open day earlier this year, inviting neighbors and members of the community to tour their facilities and learn more about their operations. The event also featured talks from the EDME team, providing insights into the company’s history and its role in the community.
According to Renata Faldo, the technical director at EDME, the stunning view of the Stour estuary is just one of the many reasons why the company is a recognizable landmark in the village. She adds, “By collaborating with other organizations, we were able to showcase all the great things our village has to offer. It was a great opportunity for neighbors to get to know each other and learn more about their surroundings. The feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive.”
In today’s world, where people are increasingly conscious about the quality and origin of their food, EDME’s commitment to using natural, wholesome ingredients is more relevant than ever. As Renata Faldo puts it, “People in 1884 wanted tasty, wholesome foods, and in 2024, people still want delicious baked goods and foods made from natural, wholesome ingredients. It’s that simple – we are an integral part of our community.”