James Hook has announced his decision to step back from day-to-day operations at PD Hook, handing control of the company to his son Patrick Hook who has taken over as managing director.
The move comes as part of a broader restructuring following the business’s separation from its Hook2Sisters joint venture in the summer.
Speaking about the handover, James Hook told Poultry Business the timing “made sense” both personally and strategically. “I’m nearly 70, so it was always in the offing anyway,” he explained. “It’s just common-sense timing. You need to let the younger people run the business. I’m still enjoying it all and will stay involved at board level, but it’s right for the next generation to lead.”
Under the new structure, Patrick will oversee operations alongside several other family members including his four siblings, as the business looks to expand its rearing and breeding farms and extend hatchery capacity. “We’re in a strong position,” said Patrick. “Our focus is on continuing to supply customers with high-quality chicks and regrowing capacity to meet rising demand. The good thing is that we’ve all grown up in the business – there’s a strong family team behind it.”
James said he plans to return to hands-on farming with sheep and cattle, describing the change as “a natural step.”
“I’ll still attend monthly board meetings, but Patrick and the team will run the business day to day,” he said. “It’s a good time to step back, the industry’s in the best shape it’s been for years.”
He added that the broiler sector currently enjoys healthy margins, strong demand, and improved welfare standards. “Everyone’s got a good margin, welfare’s improved, and the demand for chicken remains very strong,” he said. “The only real concern is avian influenza, which is spreading quickly again this autumn.”
Reflecting on government policy, James acknowledged the sector’s initial frustration over inheritance tax reforms but said most family businesses have now adapted. “A year ago, everyone was angry,” he said. “But most businesses have had time to reorganise and are now in a position to deal with what’s been put in front of us.”