history.
Thornton Sugar was founded in 1959 by Hubert Thornton and has remained an independent family-owned business ever since.
About Us
our approach
ethos.
We source from trusted producers in the UK, EU, and worldwide to ensure consistent, high-quality supply backed by expert technical and market advice.
Over the years, the company has grown steadily while staying true to the principles it was built on: trust, reliability, specialist knowledge and strong working relationships.
delivering.
Serving the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical sectors, we operate with integrity, transparency, and technical excellence. Our independence ensures impartiality, and our reputation is built on trust, expertise, and an uncompromising commitment to product quality, safety, and customer satisfaction.
our ETHICS & INTEGRITY
At Thornton Sugar, integrity, transparency, and responsible business practices are fundamental to how we operate. Our Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) approach is embedded throughout our supply chain, supplier partnerships, and internal decision-making.
We work with partners who share our commitment to ethical sourcing, responsible environmental practices, human rights, fair labour standards, and robust governance.
We continually review opportunities to improve environmental performance, strengthen supply chain transparency, support our people and communities, and uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct. For us, ESG is not a standalone initiative, it is part of doing business the right way.
meet the team
Adrian Thornton
Managing Director
Lucy Thornton
Head of Customer Services and Logistics
Zachary Thornton
Business Development and Quality Manager
Donna Glover
Customer Services Manager
Julie Surname
Job Title
Vicky Surname
Job title to go here
Laura Gay
Customer Services Executive
Tom Fowler
National Accounts Manager
Amird Devadasan
Head of Technical and QA
our work place
Has global reach, whilst nestled in - between the beet fields in Bury St Edmunds.
our heritage
1959
Business founded by Hubert Thornton - laying the foundations for an independent family -owned business built on trust, knowledge and dependable service.
’85
Adrian joined the business in 1985, bringing fresh energy to the company while continuing the values and customer-first approach established by Hubert.
’09
Relocates to Bury St Edmunds from Lavenham. After many years in Lavenham, Thornton Sugar moved to Bury St Edmunds, creating a more practical base for the business while remaining proudly rooted in Suffolk.
’11
Thornton Sugar became a limited company in 2011, reflecting the evolution of the business and its continued commitment to long-term stability.
’13
Lucy joined Thornton Sugar in 2013, bringing the next generation into the family business and supporting its continued growth and development.
’19
Zachary joined in 2019, working alongside Lucy and Adrian as the family business continued to evolve.
’25
In 2025, Thornton Sugar purchased its own office space and moved to The Sugar Barn, creating a permanent new home for the business and an important milestone in its history.
Rebrand and growth...
supporting our community
Sudbury Rugby Club
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Racing
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Sustainability & Corporate Responsibility
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