Schuman Cheese Partners with Wyke Farms to Enhance Premium Offerings

Schuman Cheese has announced a new partnership with Wyke Farms, the largest independent cheese producer in the United Kingdom. This collaboration enables Schuman to serve as the exclusive supplier of Wyke Farms and its Ivy’s Reserve brand in the U.S. market. The agreement marks a significant step in Schuman’s strategy to expand its portfolio of premium and imported cheeses.

Founded in 1945, Schuman Cheese is a fourth-generation family-owned business based in Fairfield, New Jersey. The company is recognized as a leading importer and distributor of specialty cheeses in North America. The partnership with Wyke Farms aligns with Schuman’s commitment to nurturing heritage brands and enhancing its specialty offerings.

Strengthening Legacy Through Quality

Wyke Farms boasts nearly 300 years of cheesemaking history, producing award-winning farmhouse cheddar and butter using traditional recipes. The company’s products are crafted from milk sourced from its own family farms and a network of local producers. This method reflects Schuman’s own dedication to craftsmanship and brand stewardship.

Ivy’s Reserve, one of Wyke Farms’ premium lines, is particularly noteworthy. Named after the late Ivy Clothier, whose recipes remain central to the brand, these cheddars are aged in Somerset to develop a rich flavor and creamy texture. The brand’s farmhouse butter is made using traditionally aged cream, providing a smooth texture ideal for gourmet uses and everyday meals.

Ian Schuman, Executive Vice President of International Business Development at Schuman Cheese, emphasized the quality and sustainability of the products, stating, “Wyke and Ivy’s Reserve bring exceptional quality, provenance, and sustainability credentials to our portfolio, while offering a distinct British cheddar profile that expands choice for both retailers and consumers.”

A Commitment to Sustainability

Wyke Farms is recognized for its progressive sustainability initiatives, notably its “100% Green” strategy. This approach includes producing cheese and butter using renewable energy generated on its farms. The company aims to achieve carbon-neutral dairy operations while investing in regenerative farming practices, biodiversity monitoring, and animal welfare.

Richard Clothier MBE, Managing Director of Wyke Farms, expressed pride in the partnership, noting, “My grandmother Ivy seldom left Somerset… Partnering with Schuman Cheese, whose values so closely align with our own, allows us to share the unique character and heritage of Somerset farmhouse cheddar with a new audience.” This commitment to quality and sustainability underscores both companies’ dedication to preserving their respective legacies while enhancing their market presence.

As Schuman Cheese continues to expand its curated specialty portfolio, this collaboration with Wyke Farms reinforces its role as a steward of globally respected brands. The partnership aims to deliver a comprehensive selection of imported, premium, and heritage cheeses to customers across the United States, further solidifying Schuman’s leadership in the specialty cheese market.