Hovis Tasty Wholemeal Bread

Hovis is one of the most iconic British food brands, with roots dating back to 1886. It was founded by Richard 'Stoney' Smith, who patented a milling process that retained the wheatgerm in the flour, originally naming it 'Smith's Patent Germ Flour'. The name Hovis was later adopted following a public competition, derived from the Latin phrase 'Hominis Vis' meaning 'Strength of Man'.

Hovis bread sold in the United Kingdom is primarily manufactured within the UK, utilizing a network of bakeries and mills across the country. The brand emphasizes the use of traditional methods and locally sourced ingredients where possible to maintain its heritage as a staple of British households.

Ownership of the brand has transitioned several times. Formerly a key part of Premier Foods, it became a joint venture between Premier Foods and The Gores Group in 2014. In 2020, Hovis was acquired by Endless LLP, a British-based private equity firm. As of 2024 and looking toward 2026, Hovis remains under the ownership of Endless LLP, continuing its legacy as a major player in the British bakery market.