Ron Chalker (The Potato Man)

The Origins of Ron Chalker ("The Potato Man") Ltd goes back over 60 years when Ron Chalker set up a small wholesaling business, with a strong emphasis on potatoes, operating in the Lancashire area. This business was particularly successful following the introduction of a van sales operation.  Ron Chalker also purchased a small corner shop and before long this side of the business had expanded through demand for deliveries. Potatoes had always played a large part in shaping the company's trade and in 1966 Ron Chalker ("The Potato Man") Ltd was founded at Whitworth Road, Rochdale.

Shortly after this Mr Chalker brought his two sons, Robin and Roy, into the business, and growing trade brought a move to larger premises at Stanhope Street which was subsequently amalgamated with premises at Heywood. When Roy left Rochdale to move to Bath, Robin took on board the role of Managing Director of Ron Chalker ("The Potato Man") assisted by his sons John and Oliver.

The former emphasis on fruit and vegetables wholesaling gradually changed to refrigerated transport and storage of produce, including frozen, chilled and par fried chilled chips, salads and a broad range of fruit and vegetables. In line with this a rolling programme of investments in facilities has been carried out to place the company in the strong position it finds itself in today.