Californian businessman buys Scotland's oldest bakery and moves to Strathaven

The acquisition sees Carlos take full ownership of the business and its Strathaven premises, with the bakery continuing to trade as normal. Barry and Claire Taylor, who have operated the business since 1997 and represent the sixth generation of family ownership, will remain involved on a consultancy basis during the transition period to ensure continuity for staff, customers and suppliers.

Carlos Huerta said: "Alexander Taylor is more than a bakery; it is a piece of living Scottish heritage. From the moment I came across this business, I felt a real connection to what it represents: genuine craft, community, and a story that has been carefully preserved across generations.

“My commitment is to protect that legacy and build on it, keeping the heart of the business exactly where it belongs, in Strathaven. But the goal is no longer just to be one of the oldest - it’s to become one of the most well-known bakeries in the UK."

Barry and Claire Taylor commented: "Handing over something that has been in our family for so long was never going to be an easy decision. But knowing that Alexander Taylor is passing to someone who genuinely cares about what it stands for, and who is committed to its future in this community, makes it the right one. We're proud of everything we've built, and we're excited to see what comes next."

Cameron Young, Partner at Business Partnership, who advised the sellers throughout the transaction, said: "This is a genuinely special business with a story that resonated with buyers from across the world. Carlos stood out not just because of his commercial credentials, but because of his passion for Scotland and his respect for what the Taylors have created here. It was clear from early conversations that he wasn't looking to reinvent Alexander Taylor, he was looking to steward it. That's exactly what this business deserves."

Founded in 1820, Alexander Taylor Bakery has been a cornerstone of life in Strathaven for over two centuries. Renowned for its handcrafted breads, savouries, patisserie and traditional Scottish baking, the business employs a team of 26 and serves a loyal local customer base alongside visitors drawn to the town's historic centre.

The transaction was handled by Business Partnership, a national firm of business brokers and advisers specialising in the sale of independent businesses.