A fourth generation of family leadership is taking the helm at a business rooted in nearly a century of history and innovation.
Saffie Dowty has been appointed sales director of Drywite Limited in Halesowen, a company with deep family ties and a legacy that dates back to 1933.
The business began as the Pioneer Potato Company Ltd, founded by Ms Dowty’s great-grandfather Harold G Lee.
It was inspired by his son Malcolm's idea to supply ready-peeled potatoes to customers in Smethwick and West Bromwich.
Kelvin Lee, managing director, said: "I am delighted to welcome my daughter Saffie to join Drywite as Sales Director.
"Saffie’s appointment reflects our family’s ongoing commitment to our business, our customers, and the industries we supply.
"Having grown up around our company and its values, she has both a strong understanding of the business and a real passion for supporting our customers.
"She also brings a wealth of sales expertise, with over ten years' experience as Sales Manager for a multinational company in the agricultural sector.
"I am sure that my father and grandfather would have been delighted to know that, after 93 years, the company is still in safe hands."
Drywite shifted its focus from potatoes to potato preservatives after developing a solution to prevent peeled potatoes from discolouring.
This product became so popular among fish friers that the company rebranded as Drywite Ltd in 1935.
Today, Drywite supplies products to vegetable processors, fish friers, and caterers worldwide.
The company has operated from its Park Lane, Cradley site since 1960.
It remains committed to innovation, product quality, customer service, and long-term business relationships.
