The Norfolk Family Business Surviving and thriving across Four Centuries, Ten Monarchs and One family
In the heart of North Norfolk lies a fascinating family business that has not only survived but thrived through four centuries, ten monarchs, and the hands of nine generations, to-date.
Bakers & Larners of Holt part of the CT Baker Group, is more than just a business; it is a cornerstone of the community it has served for over 254-years.
And last week, Family Business UK members had the privilege of visiting this remarkable establishment, where tradition and innovation continue to shape its journey.
A Legacy Rooted in History
Bakers & Larners has been trading from its historic home at 8 Market Place, Holt since around 1810. The Baker family became involved in the business in the 1770s, and their influence, and stewardship, has been felt ever since.
Through the centuries, the family has continuously diversified and adapted the business to meet changing demands, weathering economic shifts and societal transformations.
What began as a humble ironmongery has evolved through various incarnations, including blacksmithing, brewing, gunsmiths & sporting goods, heating engineers, drainage contractors, and agricultural machinery—testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that has carried the family business through time.
Even as far back as the 1750s, the early custodians of the business were employing and training local apprentices. This commitment to nurturing local talent has remained a hallmark of Bakers & Larners, making it a true family business in every sense—both for the Bakers and the generations of employees who have been part of its success.
A “Town Within a Town”
Today, Bakers & Larners stands as a 41,000 square-foot department store that offers everything from fine wines to furniture, with its famous Christmas hampers rivalling those of perhaps more recognisable London department stores.
The original 1600s wine cellars, one of which was “lost” for generations, are still in use today, providing a unique connection to the business’s deep roots.
With approximately 80 employees in the store, all of whom are based in north Norfolk – many representing multiple generations of the same local families, Bakers & Larners is not just a store but a “town within a town,” deeply woven into the social and economic fabric of Holt.
The wider CT Baker Group accounts for c215 employees, across the department store, 2 supermarkets and 4 builders merchant depots, all within North Norfolk.
Community First
Bakers & Larners’ long-standing commitment to its community was perhaps most evident in 2020, when tragedy struck.
During some of the worst days of Covid, a devastating fire destroyed the family’s Budgens store, leaving the town without a supermarket and its only post office.
Undeterred, the Baker family acted quickly. Within just five days, they had reopened the post office within their department store, ensuring that this essential service remained available to Holt’s largely older population, where over 35% of residents are aged 65 and above.
Additionally, an interim grocery store was set up in the car park to meet the needs of local customers, especially those without suitable transport or digital skills. This rapid response highlighted the Baker family’s deep understanding of and commitment to the community they have served for so long.
Resilience Through the Generations
Through world wars, recessions, and countless economic challenges, Bakers & Larners has stood the test of time.
Under the stewardship of its current managing director, Nick Baker, and directors Malcolm Baker and Felicity Baker-Attew, the business continues to thrive as it enters its 9th generation, with the 10th generation preparing to join imminently, to ensure this historic business family lineage continues, onto the next generation.
The family’s strategic approach has enabled Bakers & Larners to expand beyond Holt, with an established network of family-owned builder’s merchants stretching across North Norfolk, alongside the acquisition of family-business Bettys (furniture and clothing) in 2004, and the addition of the aforementioned Budgens in 2007.
Despite these expansions, the recognisable heart of the business remains its department store—a symbol of stability, growth, and steadfast dedication to the local community.
Custodians of Holt’s Heritage
Bakers & Larners is not just a business; it is perhaps a custodian of Holt’s heritage.
It embodies the values that have sustained family businesses for generations—long termism, resilience, adaptability, and a deep commitment to community.
For nearly 300 years, the Baker family have served as stewards of this business, ensuring that it continues to play a vital role in the local economy while staying true to its roots.
Family Business UK extends its sincere thanks to Malcom, Nick, and their teams, as well as our exceptional tour guides, Luke and Natasha, for hosting us and sharing the story of this extraordinary multi-generational family enterprise earlier this month.
Further Reading & Resources
Find out more about FBUK’s Programme of exclusive Family Business visits at: https://www.familybusinessuk.org/event-category/family-business-visit/
Find out more about embedding long-termism in your family business at: https://www.familybusinessuk.org/resource/embedding-long-termism-guide/
Find out more about Engaging the next generation, the Benefits of multi-generational working and more by visiting FBUK Public Resource’s Centre.
FBUK Members can access an exclusive suite of family business resources, including the unique, Life Stages digital tool and model in the Members Resource Centre.
