Bakery chain branded 'better than Greggs' is rapidly expanding
The store sells indulgent sweet pastries, savoury pies, and sausage rolls
A traditional family bakery that’s said to be ‘better than Greggs’ is hoping to double its footprint in the coming years, with exciting plans in place to open up to 70 stores.
We really are spoilt for choice when it comes to bakeries in the UK. There’s Gail’s, which was crowned Bakery Retailer of the Year in 2015, Poundbakery, and even American chains, such as Krispy Kreme, whose indulgent doughnuts can be bought in bumper packs of 24.
Many people would say that Greggs is the king of the castle, with more than 2,600 shops across the country serving up piping-hot pastries, grab-and-go sandwiches, and fresh bread options.
But there’s a rival company with 71 branches that some have claimed is ‘better’ than the northern powerhouse - and it’s rapidly expanding.
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The beloved business, which was established in 1954, is currently run by the founder’s son, Stanley, and his grandson, John.
Its main production site is situated in Lochore, Fife, where all items are made and transported to the brick and mortar sites.
On the menu, you’ll discover pies of all kinds: macaroni, chicken, and steak.
There’s also beef and pork sausage rolls to enjoy, pineapple cakes, blobby biscuits, and tea breads for those with a sweet tooth, and filled rolls, with fillings that include egg mayonnaise, sweet chilli chicken, and cheese ploughman's.
And although the company, called Bayne’s The Family Bakers, is only situated across Scotland, it’s surely only a matter of time before we see the first English store, right?
In 2026 and beyond, the business - which employs around 1,000 people, according to The Scottish Sun - is set to embark on a ‘significant expansion programme’, as per a filing with Fife Council.
“SM Bayne trade as ‘Baynes the Family Bakers’ and now has 71 bakers shops located throughout Scotland, including numerous shop units throughout Fife, predominantly in traditional High Street locations,” it read.
“These shop units are all served by the Orwell Bakery facility which was first established in the town in 1954 and is now a major employer in the local area and a significant part of the Lochore community.
“As part of a major growth and diversification of the bakery business, Baynes are embarking on a significant expansion programme, which will include the opening of a further 69 new shop units across Scotland.”
The filing added that as a key part of this expansion programme, the company is ‘currently in the process of finalising the purchase of part of the allocated employment site which lies directly adjacent to their existing facility from Fife Council.’
The outlet reported that the expansion application is still being processed by Fife Council, and that a new branch of Baynes the Family Bakers is set to open in Glasgow city centre.
Of the 72-year-old business’ growth, John Bayne, Joint Managing Director said: “By strengthening our infrastructure now, we are ensuring that Bayne’s is positioned for sustainable, long-term growth, allowing us to double our footprint across Scotland over the coming years.”
He added: “As we grow our retail presence and enhance our production capabilities, we are committed to investing in our people and providing stable, local jobs.”
Hopefully we’ll see some Baynes the Family Bakers branches south of Scotland soon!
Ella Scott