Fisherman's Friend firm invests in new Fleetwood site

The firm has bought the site from Associated British Ports (ABP) for an undisclosed sum

Lofthouse’s heritage hails back to 1865 when Fleetwood pharmacist James Lofthouse developed a menthol and eucalyptus liquid for fishermen from the town to take on trips to the North Atlantic fishing grounds.

The family company, whose boss is Doreen Lofthouse, now has a workforce of 380 people and exports its products to over 100 countries worldwide.

A spokesperson for Lofthouse said: “We have been operating on our current site for almost 50 years and we are rapidly reaching full capacity.

“The acquisition of this plot of land signifies our desire to safeguard the future of Fisherman’s Friend in Fleetwood.

“It will allow for the phased transfer of operations as the new site is gradually developed over a number of years.

“The Maritime Street site will remain in operation for the foreseeable future.”

“We would like to thank ABP for their co-operation and we look forward to working with Wyre Council on a planning application in due course.”

Wyre Council chief executive Garry Payne (inset), said: “This deal is good news for the town and the wider region.”

Victoria Critchley, head of commercial development at ABP, added: “We look forward to seeing the future development of the site, which is set to help fuel the region’s economy.”