It is with great sadness that we share the news that Marian Baker, co-founder of Baker Labels, passed away peacefully on Sunday 30th November, aged 89.
Together with her husband Roy, Marian founded Baker Labels in 1973. What began as a husband-and-wife venture in a small factory in Vale Royal, near King’s Cross, became the foundations of the company we are so proud of today. The values that shape Baker Labels – our commitment to caring for our staff, supporting our community, and building honest, long-lasting business relationships were established by Roy and Marian from the very beginning. They didn’t simply start a business; they created the “Baker family ethos” that continues to guide every decision we make.
Those who knew Marian will remember her warmth, her kindness and her sharp mind.
She kept meticulous handwritten records of the company’s early sales ledgers and accounts – documents we still treasure today as a beautiful reminder of the care and pride she poured into the business. Even after retiring, Marian remained a friend to many of our team, staying closely connected to the company’s progress and never losing her interest in how the business she helped build was evolving.
She was immensely proud of how Baker Labels has grown under the leadership of her son Steve, and delighted to see her grandsons Harry and Tom become part of the next generation carrying the Baker name and values forward. When she officially opened BakPac with a ceremonial ribbon cutting in February 2020, she did so with her characteristic grace and enthusiasm. On her visit to BakPac last year, she was deeply impressed by its progress and often said how proud Roy would have been to see how far the company had come.
Marian was not just our co-founder. She was a true matriarch of the Baker family, at home and within the business.
Her influence is woven into our culture, our relationships, and the way we look after one another. Her legacy lives on in every member of staff who feels valued here, every customer who trusts us, and every charity we are able to support.
She will be greatly missed by everyone at Baker Labels who had the privilege of knowing her.
Our deepest love and condolences are with Steve, Harry, Tom and the entire Baker family during this sad time.
Thank you, Marian – for the foundations you built, the values you instilled, and the legacy that will continue for generations.
