Obituary: Aled Griffiths OBE (1930-2025)

Published on : 8 Aug 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Aled Griffiths OBE, a pioneering figure in the egg industry, who passed away peacefully at the age of 95 at his home in Shropshire. Aled’s remarkable contributions and visionary leadership have left an indelible mark on the poultry sector, both in the UK and internationally.

Born in Penmaenmawr, Aled's journey in agriculture began after graduating from Aberystwyth University College of Wales. In 1955, he and his late wife Olwen embarked on their farming adventure near the Welsh border in Shropshire. In 1969, he founded Griffiths Family Farms, starting with Oaklands Farm, and transformed the business into a vertically integrated leader in egg production, known for its technological innovations and commitment to animal welfare.

Aled's forward-thinking approach was further enhanced by a Nuffield Farming Scholarship in 1973, which inspired him to adopt and implement US automation techniques, His efforts not only modernised the industry but also set new benchmarks for quality and efficiency.

In 1994 Aled received a call from London’s Buckingham Palace and was awarded the OBE for service to the poultry industry in UK and Europe. During the year he also became a Fellow of the Royal Agricultural Society (FRAgS).

In 1999 Aled received the Royal Agricultural Society of England “Award for Excellence in Practical Farming” in recognition of his commitment to innovation and sustainable stewardship of his land and farming business. Other areas he had also been involved in are;

Past member of the Agricultural Wages Board

A past governor of Walford Agricultural College

An existing member of the British Egg Marketing Board (BEMB) Trust
A Regional Councillor of the West Midlands Confederation of British Industry (CBI)

A Governor of Harper Adams University College

Most recently Aled was rewarded with the Dennis Wellstead award from the IEC (International Egg Commission) in Tokyo in recognition of his long and prestigious career in the egg industry.

Aled's passion for the industry was matched only by his dedication to nurturing the next generation of farmers. In one of his last appearances at a major conference, he remarked, “I have been lucky in my life as I have thoroughly enjoyed and continue to enjoy everything I do, particularly helping young people to succeed within the industry.”

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who were touched by his legacy. Service arrangements will be announced by the family once they are confirmed. Aled Griffiths leaves behind a lasting legacy in the egg industry and a memory of a life well-lived.