History of J&E Smillie Growers of Seed Potatoes
1959
Where we started
The business established by James and Enid Smillie, growing and marketing seed and ware potatoes.
1970
Mid 1970’s - Gordon Smillie joins the business
Now growing approx 700 acres, mainly around its base near Perth, but also in
Kincardineshire and Angus to be stored and graded at the company’s second site, Letham Grange, near Arbroath.
1980
Early 80’s
J & E Smillie take on the marketing of a further 400 acres of potatoes grown by Montrose Potatoes Limited, a growers co-operative based near Fettercairn
1984
In conjunction with R.J.S.Doig, James Haggart and Son and Marcel Guindi
Caithness Potatoes are formed. Caithness Potatoes was set up to market new varieties bred by Dr. Jack Dunnett, formerly the senior potato breeder at Pentlandfield,
Edinburgh. This partnership resulted in several very successful varieties being brought to market, notably Nadine, Harmony,
Valor and Osprey.
1990
Who are we
Through a partnership with Chamberlain & Co, J & E Smillie become major suppliers to Israel and other export
markets are further developed through Gordon Smillie’s drive allied with new varieties from Caithness Potatoes
2011
Continued development
Continued development of new export opportunities by Gordon see partnerships established in Egypt, Morocco and
The Canary Isles.
2018
Alistair Melrose joins the business
Alistair Melrose joins the business to assist Gordon. Smillie’s take on the marketing of A & F Growers as their
involvement with MPL draws to an end.
2020
Where we are heading
Caledonia Potatoes are formed following the de-merger of Caithness Potatoes with Smillie’s heavily involved
2021
Re-investment programme
Gordon sadly losses his fight with illness but Fiona Smillie keeps the business going as is and embraces a
substantial re-investment programme within the Ruthvenfield site to improve ventilation, storage and grading facilities.
2023
Marketing agents for Caledonia Potatoes
The decision is made that Smillie’s will now act as marketing agents for Caledonia Potatoes following the decision to
close their office facility.
2024
Up to date
Investment continues at Ruthvenfield with a new grading line being installed along with Solar Panels.
