
Young Business Person of the Year entry – Jacob Durkin
At just 33 years old, Jacob Durkin has established himself as a standout young leader in the UK food industry. Since joining Trentham Foods in 2013 – soon after graduating from Keele University with a degree in International Business and Finance – Jacob has transformed the family-run operation into one of the fastest-growing, most respected businesses in its sector.
Under his leadership, the company has achieved consistent financial growth, a national footprint, international sourcing capability and an outstanding reputation for service, culture and corporate responsibility.
Trentham Foods, founded by Jacob’s father Daren in 2006, started as a regional poultry supplier. When Jacob joined he saw the potential to scale the business through strategic diversification, market agility and operational excellence. He has delivered on that vision, with turnover increasing from £27.5 million in 2022 to £32 million in 2024 and a projected £45 million in 2025.
Jacob’s commercial success stems from his ability to spot and act on emerging opportunities. He expanded the product portfolio from poultry to a multi-protein range, incorporating responsibly sourced goods from new international markets including Australia, New Zealand, and Ukraine.
He joined key trade organisationsincluding the British Frozen Food Federation (BFFF), International Meat Trade Association (IMTA) and Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce to strengthen Trentham’s industry presence, build strategic partnerships and stay ahead of market trends. He is a regular attendee and advocate at events hosted by all three organisations, ensuring the business remains actively engaged at the highest levels of industry dialogue.
Looking ahead, Jacob plans to grow export sales to account for 20% of total revenue by 2027 by expanding trade routes into the EU, leveraging new trade agreements with countries like Australia and building a stronger presence at international trade shows.
His long-term ambition is to position Trentham Foods as one of the most respected, trusted foodservice suppliers in the UK and Europe – driven by quality, innovation and responsible leadership.
Jacob Durkin has entered the Young Business Person of the Year category of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.