Sir Jim Walker, Former Director of Walker’s Shortbread, Dies at 80

Sir Jim Walker, who previously served as a director for Walker’s Shortbread, has passed away at 80 years old. He became part of the family enterprise in 1962 and was knighted in 2022 in recognition of his contributions to the food sector. The bakery was established by his grandfather, Joseph Walker, in the Speyside village of Aberlour in 1898. Sir Jim played a key role in developing Walker’s into a renowned exporter of Scottish biscuits, earning numerous awards. He was born in Elgin, grew up in Aberlour, and received his education at Robert Gordon’s College in Aberdeen. A father of four, he managed Walker’s in collaboration with his brother, Joe, and his sister, Marjorie. He had recently transitioned to an advisory capacity, enabling the fourth generation of the family, which includes three of his children, to assume leadership of the company. Sir Jim’s death occurred on Sunday at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. A statement released by his family conveyed: “He will always be remembered as a devoted, energetic and kind man who was an inspiration to many who knew him.” They added: “We will honour his memory by continuing to uphold the values and legacy he built over a lifetime of dedication.”