About Us

The Story of Clark’s Bakery

Clark’s Bakery traces its roots back to 1950, when Ernest Earle Clark founded the bakery from a modest corner shop on Annfield Road. This humble beginning marked the start of a legacy rooted in family, craftsmanship, and community. Earle, affectionately known as Earnie, was dedicated to quality, baking fresh goods daily and gaining a loyal following through his commitment to traditional recipes and exceptional service.

In the 1960s, Earle’s son, Alan Clark, joined the family business bringing not only a deep-rooted passion for baking, but also a clear vision for the future of Clark’s Bakery. A trained Master Baker and former Chairman of the local bakery association, Alan had developed his skills and broadened his perspective through valuable experience abroad. When he returned, he brought with him fresh ideas and an unwavering commitment to evolving the bakery while honouring its traditions. Alan would go on to play a pivotal role in shaping the modern identity of Clark’s Bakery, laying the groundwork for its continued success.

Alan was more than a successor—he was a driving force. His leadership in the 1980s, during a time of economic recession and voluntary liquidation, was critical to the bakery’s survival. Guided by the same principles of quality and care that defined his father’s approach, Alan implemented strategic changes that stabilized the business. His tireless work ethic and deep connection to the local community ensured that the bakery didn’t just endure—it thrived.

Alan’s legacy goes far beyond strategic leadership—he remained hands-on in the daily running of the bakery, working closely with both staff and customers. Known for his warmth, resilience, and forward-thinking approach, Alan helped define the culture of Clark’s Bakery. During his tenure, he expanded the business from its original location to five thriving outlets across Dundee, all while staying true to the values instilled by his father.

In 2010, Alan’s son Jonathon Clark took over the business and ushered in a new era of growth and modernisation. Building on the strong foundations laid by his father, Jonathon introduced fresh ideas and embraced innovation, propelling Clark’s Bakery from a respected family brand into a dynamic local chain. By 2015, the business had grown to nine locations—solid proof of its continued relevance and Jonathon’s clear vision for the future.

One of Jonathon’s most impactful innovations was the launch of an online ordering service, which enabled Clark’s Bakery to meet the demands of a modern customer base and extend its reach beyond traditional footfall. This digital shift positioned the bakery as a forward-thinking business—embracing convenience and technology while remaining grounded in its commitment to quality.

Further reinforcing that commitment, in 2017 the Clark family took another bold step by opening their own in-house butchery. This move wasn’t just about cutting out the middleman; it was about taking full control of product sourcing and ensuring complete traceability of all meat used in their baked goods. By doing so, Clark’s Bakery could guarantee that every sausage roll, pie, and filled roll met the highest standards of quality and provenance.

Sourcing directly also meant the bakery could support local farmers and producers, strengthening ties within the Scottish food community and keeping business as local as possible. This dedication to transparency and community support has become a cornerstone of the brand’s identity—demonstrating that innovation and tradition can go hand in hand.

Whether through sponsoring local events or participating in community initiatives, Clark’s Bakery continues to strengthen its local ties. It stands today as a symbol of how a family-run business, built on passion and perseverance, can stand the test of time.

The story of Clark’s Bakery is not just a business history—it’s a story of three generations of dedication, love, and resilience. A beacon of tradition in a modern world.