CHILLI-based preserves company Jules & Sharpie has been acquired by Thursday Cottage, part of Tiptree jam maker Wilkin & Sons.

Thursday Cottage already produces a number of Jules & Sharpie products and production of the full range will switch to Tiptree by the end of this month.

Julie Field and Frances Hopewell-Smith, the co-founders of Jules & Sharpie, which is currently based at Leiston, will remain part of the business and be involved with the expansion and development of the brand.

They started the company in 2002 in their home kitchens, using a friend’s traditional Jamaican recipe for hot pepper jelly.

“We are immensely proud of our business and our achievements so far, but after nearly 10 years we feel we’ve gone as far as we can on our own,” said Julie.

Tim Came, managing director of Thursday Cottage, said: “The Jules & Sharpie range is a perfect addition to Thursday Cottage and I know we’ll work very well together. We have the same ethos: good ingredients and natural taste. It’s also good for Tiptree to see another successful business coming into the village as this may mean additional employment opportunities in the future,” he added.