Norseland Limited, the UK’s leading blended cheese supplier based in Ilchester, has announced a return to its original name - The Ilchester Cheese Co. - reconnecting with its heritage and reaffirming its commitment to the local community.
The Ilchester Cheese Co. is a major local employer, with around 175 people working across its production facilities and office at the Ilchester site. In 2024, the business achieved £45 million in turnover, with much of its growth driven by strong brand performance and export success.
Founded in Ilchester and proudly rooted in Somerset’s dairy heartland, the company made its name by blending traditional British cheesemaking with innovative flavour combinations. Now, it’s embracing the name that reflects both its legacy and its future.
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“We’ve always been proud to call Ilchester home, and this rebrand allows us to really reflect our roots — in name and in spirit,” said James Catchpole, Managing Director of The Ilchester Cheese Co. “This is about celebrating where we come from, the people behind our products, and our place in the Somerset community.”
The company is best known for creating some of the UK’s most beloved cheeses — including Applewood and Mexicana— both of which are number one brands in their categories nationally (Smoky and Spicy cheeses – Kantar ). The business also pioneered the flavoured cheese category over 60 years ago with its first Ilchester Beer Cheese in 1962.
“We’re proud to be creating jobs and opportunities right here in Somerset, while also putting local cheesemaking on the global map. We may be a national and international business, but Ilchester is truly at the heart of everything we do,” added James.
Today, The Ilchester Cheese Co. exports to over 20 countries worldwide, including Canada, Australia, and countries across Europe and Asia. It also cuts, packs and distributes Jarlsberg and other cheeses from its Norwegian parent company TINE, with Jarlsberg enjoying +13% volume growth in 2024 in the UK market alone.
“We’re proud of our past, but we’re also excited for what’s ahead — new ideas, new flavours, and a renewed connection to the place we call home,” said James.