Hopwells Ltd., one of the United Kingdom’s largest independent, family owned frozen food wholesalers with six distribution centers across England, has purchased Windsor Foodservice. The two companies, after working closely over many years, finalized the deal as part of Nottingham, England-headquartered Hopwells’ strategic plan to expand services and geographical reach.
In addition to and expanded assortment of frozen products, the acquisition adds a significant range of ambient and chilled SKUs as well as fresh meat and poultry. Furthermore, Windsor Foodservice has a well-established artisan patisserie offering exquisite desserts and cakes, which is also part of the deal.
“Hopwells prides itself on its traditional family values and Windsor is also a family business, so we both celebrate the successes our family ethos brings to customers.” said Managing Director Tristan Hopwell. “The acquisition of Windsor Foodservice is a natural fit, giving us the ability to grow by offering a broader range of products to the customers of both companies.”
He added: “We currently have no plans to change the branding of either business. Both companies are well respected in their markets and known for the quality of their service and loyal customer base. We believe that by developing best practice across the brands, we will strengthen the existing services and products we can offer to our developing customer portfolio.”
Pete Whitehead, chief executive officer of Windsor Foodservice, who will soon be retiring, commented: “Our business is in great shape, and I am proud of the achievements made over the last 34 years. I started this company in my garage at home with just four chest freezers and have thoroughly enjoyed the journey, developing it into what we have now. It’s the people who make Windsor, my family and the staff who have worked alongside me, and I know that they are now in the safe and secure hands within the Hopwells family.”
