Pitcher & Le Quesne Funeral Directors, a local business that dates back to the 1800s, has recently launched its new brand.
As a company that is steeped in local history and that has supported local families over the years, it is now evolving and moving forward into a new chapter.
AA Pitcher, trading as Tantivy Motors, was established by Arthur Adolphus in 1897. Originally set up as a transport firm, the company had a fleet of vehicles including cars, taxis and coaches. When George Pitcher, Arthur’s oldest living son, died his brother, Dennis took over.
In the early 1970s, JB Le Quesne approach Dennis Pitcher to ask if he would like to buy the business. The transaction was completed in 1972 and the company was renamed Pitcher & Le Quesne. Peter Pitcher joined that year to help run the business with his father, Dennis.
Earlier Pitcher Taxis was a leading taxi firm in Jersey, who also had hearses and Limousines. Over time two local funeral director businesses ceased trading so Pitcher & Le Quesne took over to become the business that is known today.
Peter Pitcher is still involved in the business as a Director and Consultant and he is very proud of the loyal team he has recruited over the years, including Paul Battrick, who is now Managing Director of the business, and Andy Errington-Rennell – the only remaining member of the team who worked alongside Peter.
When reflecting on the company’s history and taking it into its next phase, Peter Pitcher said: “Our vision for the company has not changed – we have always been an innovative, forward-thinking business, which has helped us stay ahead of our competitors.
“Whilst we are proud of our history, we realise that the company has evolved and must keep evolving, to ensure we stay in touch with the needs of our clients.
“Our new brand is an accurate reflection of who we are as an organisation and how we are working to make the world a better place. We have supported generations of families going back to 1800s. We know our customers, their parents before them and their grandparents before them. That’s why the business name is still important and going strong. There is no mistaking our business and what we do. Our new brand enhances our name in a way that both appeals to our existing and new customers.”
Commenting on the rebrand, Managing Director, Paul Battrick, said: “I am honoured to have led the team at Pitcher & Le Quesne for 9 years. It’s a strong Jersey name that people know and trust and we realise how important that is to families and the local community. This rebrand will not detract from our core values – we are simply taking it to the next stage after 120 years serving the island.“
