In the Kitchen with… Lorna Watts

Welcome to our latest In the Kitchen feature, where we shine a light on the talented people across our foodservice division of The Compleat Food Group.

This time, we’re catching up with Lorna Watts, Marketing Manager at Wrights, as the brand proudly marks 100 years of baking. During this landmark centenary year, Lorna is at the forefront of shaping and driving the celebrations, bringing the anniversary to life across marketing channels and orchestrating the roll out of Wrights’ centenary pie and slice. Drawing on experience across global food brands and a passion for flavour, creativity and connection, she brings a fresh perspective to our iconic pastry brand.

Settle in as Lorna shares her journey, what motivates her, and why Wrights is such a special place to be.

What attracted you to a career in food?

“Food has always played an important role in my life. I’ve always enjoyed cooking and baking for family and friends, and over the years I’ve developed a real appreciation for global flavours and the cultural role food plays. A career in the industry felt like a natural fit. I’ve since had the opportunity to lead marketing and innovation for major food brands across the UK and internationally, and I love the creativity, pace and variety the sector offers. It’s been exciting to bring that experience into my role at Wrights and help shape this chapter of the brand.”

Tell us about your role as Marketing Manager at Wrights?

“I’m responsible for shaping and delivering our marketing strategy across retail, foodservice and wholesale channels. This includes our shops in Staffordshire, and the growing number of forecourt locations across the UK. It’s an exciting time to be involved in Wrights, especially as we focus on evolving from a regional favourite in the Northwest into a nationally recognised name. We’ve got some ambitious plans in motion, and with our centenary year underway, there’s plenty more to come!”

What does a typical day look like?

“Every day brings something different, and my role is so varied! I’ve been focusing on several new store openings – most recently in Leicester – as well as shop refreshes across Staffordshire, so it means I’m often up and down the country managing these. Other days I could be working on digital campaigns with wholesale partners, developing new webpages to support all the various Wrights channels, or getting behind the camera to capture our wonderful products. It’s a dynamic role, and I love the balance it gives me between strategic planning and hands‑on delivery.”

We know a big part of your role is Wrights centenary, can you tell us more about that?

“It really is a huge part of my role, and it’s been incredibly special to be involved in celebrating such an important milestone. Turning 100 years old is something to be proud of, and we’ve focused on marking it in ways that truly reflect who Wrights is – a business rooted in quality, community and craftsmanship.

One of the things I’m most proud of is our partnership with local charity Dougie Mac. We’ve created a special Wrights bag for life, with all profits donated to support the amazing end-of-life care they provide to people across Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire.

We’ve also worked hard to bring the celebrations to life through our products. Our Limited-Edition Centenary Chicken, Leek & Bacon Pie, created in collaboration with renowned chef Thom Bateman, has been flying off the shelves! As well as our Centenary Caramel Custard Slice – a celebratory twist on our much-loved Vanilla Custard Slice.

To finish the year in a truly special way, we partnered with local ceramics specialists Moorland Pottery. Working closely with owner Jon Plant, we created a commemorative centenary mug that feels like a genuine keepsake and something that celebrates our heritage and commitment to quality.”

What’s your favourite Compleat product?

“Wrights is renowned for its exceptional pastry, and the sausage roll is a firm classic. It’s a real benchmark product that reflects our quality, heritage and flavour, and one that continues to perform incredibly well.

Right now, though, it must be the Centenary Chicken, Leek & Bacon Pie. It’s a limited‑edition launch and a real celebration of what Wrights does best. It’s just landed on the counter and has already made a big impression, both in terms of taste and standout appeal.”

What do you love the most about your job?
“I love working for a business that genuinely values its people, welcomes experience and encourages bold thinking. The culture at Compleat and within the Wrights team is a great balance of hands‑on collaboration and strategic ambition, and it’s incredibly rewarding to be part of a team building on its heritage while still pushing boundaries and shaping the conversation today.”

What would surprise people about your job or The Compleat Food Group?

“The scale and capability of The Compleat Food Group is very impressive and there’s so much more than meets the eye. Beyond the Wrights brand, the breadth and depth of our product portfolio, innovation, and food production expertise is truly industry leading. There’s a real sense of passion and purpose across the group that makes it an exciting place to be.”

What’s your favourite thing to do outside of work?

“I’m usually at the gym, playing padel or dancing in a salsa class – I love staying active! I also enjoy spending quality time with my children, and I’m happiest when I’m socialising or entertaining. I love a full house and creating warm, memorable moments with the people I care about.”

Want to get to know more of our colleagues on the foodservice team? Let us introduce you to Lisa Gough, Helen Mulford and  Salli Bateman.