Gill Ridgard, founder of Yorkshire Baker, has launched new pastries business The Original Baker.

Ridgard is expanding in a newly formed partnership to supply independent delis with a luxury range of artisan pastries.

Investment in premises and facilities will enable Ridgard and business partner Cheryl Barrett to increase production and expand the product portfolio with a premium range of gluten-free pies and quiche.

The production area has already increased by 11,000 sq ft, and the team is to start work on a 100-pallet cold store to accommodate upscaled production, as well as a modern, well-equipped gluten-free production facility.

Ridgard and Barrett have invested in improved software, a new website and social media platforms.

“Discerning shoppers look to buy something special from the independent farm shops and delis. We have seen phenomenal growth in the sales of our all-butter pastries and a growing demand for high-quality gluten-free pastry products,” said Ridgard.