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Walker’s Shortbread stalwart recounts half-century of service from leaving Elgin Academy at 16 to delivering shortbread across the north of Scotland





A long-serving Walker’s Shortbread employee has celebrated his 50th work anniversary.

Despatch manager Brian Shand joined the business when he was just 16 years old.

Briand Shand with the late Sir Jim Walker.
Briand Shand with the late Sir Jim Walker.

Born and raised in Speyside, Brian attended Elgin Academy. Upon leaving school he submitted an application directly to ‘the boss’, the late Jim Walker Snr, kicking off a five-decade career with the world-famous shortbread manufacturer.

He started as a bread slicer at the old Walker’s Speyside bakery but soon moved into the despatch department, delivering bakery products and shortbread all over the north of Scotland.

Brian said: “Three months into the job I moved to despatch but throughout my time at Walker’s I was able to learn and grow.

“I completed several courses, attended college and even tried sales for a bit - but it wasn’t for me.”

Over the last half-century, Brian has held a number of positions at Walker’s Shortbread including storeman, export clerk, despatch chargehand and despatch manager.

A young Brian with Jim Walker Snr.
A young Brian with Jim Walker Snr.

As the years rolled by, Brian witnessed the company’s expansion from a regional bakery to an internationally recognised brand.

Brian also met his wife Cheryl while working at Walker’s in 1983. His daughter Debbie and son Jason have also had stints with the business.

“As a family, we have given over 100 years’ service to Walker’s Shortbread,” Brian added.

“I also have extended family who have been with Walker’s for years. My cousin Euan is also in the despatch team and has been with the company for 37 years.

“A massive part of my love of the job is that I have been privileged to work with a lot of great people over the years.

Brian with his wife Cheryl who he met working with Walker's Shortbread in 1983.
Brian with his wife Cheryl who he met working with Walker's Shortbread in 1983.

“As a family, we are extremely grateful to Walker’s for what they have given to us.”

Nicky Walker, Walker’s Shortbread managing director, said: “Brian's dedication and loyal service is reflective of many others at Walker’s, who are also celebrating great milestones too.

“The generations of families and their valuable contributions have built the success of Walker’s and our ability to deliver Scotland at its finest.”


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