In the rolling hills of East Lothian, where heritage and innovation converge, Brose Oat Milk is making waves.
Founded by a team with expertise in food technology, quality assurance and management, sales and marketing, business management and finance, as well as farming, this homegrown brand has taken on the giants of the oat milk industry.
Brose challenges established names with a product that not only tastes exceptional but also embodies the values of sustainability, community, and Scottish pride.
Part One
Celebrating Scottish Heritage and Sustainability
At the helm is CEO Josh Barton whose background in macroeconomics and social enterprise has shaped Brose into more than just a beverage company. Josh’s previous work founding Upmo, a charity supporting people with learning disabilities, underlines his commitment to social change—a value that permeates Brose’s mission.
The name Brose could not be more Scottish – a reference to the mix of fresh oats and spring water that has been sustaining farmers at harvest time (and the occasional claymore-wielding army) for centuries.
Brose team member Tommy Dale, who hails from a long line of farmers, ensures that Brose’s supply chain is both local and sustainable. With experience at Forth Resource Management and Caledonian Horticulture, Tommy is dedicated to supporting Scottish agriculture, sourcing only the finest locally grown oats for Brose.
As well as being the first and still the only dairy alternative to be made in Scotland with 100% Scottish oats, every bottle of Brose Oat Milk is crafted from oats milled in Scottish mills, maintaining the quality and authenticity of the product while supporting local farmers.
This connection to Scotland’s agricultural roots is a key differentiator for Brose, particularly in a market dominated by international brands. By focusing on locally-sourced ingredients and sustainable practices, Brose is not only providing a superior product but also contributing to the resilience of Scotland’s farming communities.
Part Two
Community and Collaboration at the Heart of Success
A key factor in Brose’s success has been its membership in the East Lothian Food and Drink group, part of Scotland Food & Drink’s Regional Food Group programme. This network has provided Brose with invaluable resources, from networking opportunities to promotional assistance, helping the brand access new markets and grow its community impact.
Josh Barton, reflecting on the support they've received, shared, "Being part of East Lothian Food and Drink has been a game-changer for Brose. The opportunities to connect with like-minded businesses and learn from industry leaders have been invaluable. The group’s support has allowed us to scale while staying true to our values—something that’s incredibly important to us."
The support from East Lothian Food and Drink has enabled Brose to scale its operations while staying true to its core values. As a result, Brose is not just another oat milk brand; it’s a company deeply embedded in its community, committed to creating jobs, supporting local farmers, and promoting sustainable, healthy food.
Part Three
Recognition and Growth
Brose’s commitment to quality and community has not gone unnoticed. The brand has garnered significant accolades, including the ‘Best Product Award’ at Scotland’s Speciality Food Show, a silver medal at the Scottish Retail Food & Drink Awards, and a coveted Great Taste Star. These awards affirm Brose’s place among Scotland’s top food and drink producers and highlight its potential to disrupt the market.
Brose Oat Milk is now a staple in some of Scotland’s most prestigious venues, including the Balmoral Hotel and the University of Edinburgh. By establishing partnerships with respected institutions, Brose is expanding its reach and solidifying its reputation as a brand synonymous with quality and integrity.
Looking to the Future..
As Brose continues to grow, the team remains focused on their mission to provide great-tasting oat drinks that support both people and the planet. Founder Josh’s commitment to social change is reflected in Brose’s inclusive hiring practices; half of the production team consists of young people who entered through the government-funded 'Kick Start' programme, which supports individuals furthest from employment.
This approach, alongside Josh's previous work with Upmo, embodies Brose’s goal of building a company that Scotland can be proud of. Future plans include expanding into more universities, local authorities, and premium venues across Scotland, ensuring that more people can experience the exceptional quality of Brose Oat Milk.
The story of Brose is one of passion, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to community—a story that embodies the spirit of Scotland Food & Drink’s Regional Food Group programme. As a proud member of East Lothian Food and Drink, Brose Oat Milk is not just leading the charge in sustainable, local food production; it’s also a beacon of what can be achieved when people come together with a shared vision.