David Openshaw, Managing Director at Freshers Foods Ltd, (also known as Openshaws Snacks), and a stalwart of the local business community has died, aged 76, after battling many illnesses.
Born in Prestatyn, the son of James Eric Openshaw, area manager of a chain of abattoirs in North Wales, David Openshaw arrived on the meat scene in 1978 in Wigan with his then business partner, Steve.
With a background in textiles and their subsequent decline in England, it was a splendid opportunity to start his own enterprise. David set off on his new venture with determination and enthusiasm.
He successfully began the manufacture of pork scratchings in the North West.
Freshers Foods was created in Wigan in 1988. The company has gone from strength to strength, making pork scratchings for some of the biggest companies in the country as well as their own labels.
Throughout his working life David Openshaw was committed to putting pork scratchings into mainstream areas. They went from just being available in pubs and butchers to restaurants, supermarkets and your local store, not to mention farm shops and delis.
He provided jobs to the local community, some of whom are still with the company today, which is a testament to David’s work ethics and empathy.
He was a pioneer and well respected by fellow pork scratching companies who all still seek to emulate his dedication and success in the snack world.
No pork scratchings history is complete without the mention of this leading industry figurehead.
David enjoyed playing golf and squash and was an active supporter of Bolton Wanderers and Wigan Rugby. He was still ever present running the business as effectively as he always had done, despite ongoing health issues, up until his untimely passing.
David was a well respected business man in the Wigan area and a mentor to many there and in Bolton.
David leaves behind his wife, daughter, son-in-law and two grandchildren.