Bidcorp UK has snapped up Suffolk-based wholesaler Thomas Ridley foodservice for an undisclosed sum.
The business has joined the Caterfood buying group and will continue to operate autonomously.
The announcement comes just a week after the company’s takeover of Harvest Fine Foods, which – like Thomas Ridley – was a member of Country Range Group.
Thomas Ridley has over 2,000 catering and hospitality customers throughout London and East Anglia. The wholesaler operates in sectors including healthcare, education, retail, restaurants and hotels.
“This is already shaping up to be an incredibly exciting year for us as a business,” said Bidcorp UK CEO Andrew Selley.
“After being delighted to welcome Harvest Fine Foods into the Bidcorp family earlier this week, it gives me great pleasure to extend that same warm welcome to the team at Thomas Ridley Foodservice.
“These latest two acquisitions now make Caterfood one of the main buying groups serving the foodservice wholesale sector,” he added. “Thomas Ridley is a highly experienced and accomplished foodservice supplier, and will perfectly complement the Caterfood Buying Group.
Thomas Ridley MD Justin Godfrey said: “The business has been run by my family for over 200 years so it was important that we joined a company that shares the same customer-focused DNA; making food delivery one less thing to worry about.
“Bidcorp UK’s Caterfood Buying Group has the resource to support Thomas Ridley Foodservice in further improving and developing our offer and service level to our customers whilst keeping those family values.
“The Godfrey family genuinely feel that The Caterfood Buying Group strategy of allowing Thomas Ridley to operate as an autonomous business, whilst supported by the power and scale of Caterfood, is the best option for all stakeholders. We would like to thank all of our past and present customers, suppliers and especially colleagues for making the business a great success.”
Country Range Group CEO Martin Ward said: “It’s always a shame when we lose a member, especially one as long-standing as Thomas Ridley. We wish Justin and the wider Thomas Ridley team best wishes.”
“Acquisitions are part of business and although it’s not ideal, we take it as a compliment that people are taking note of our members’ values, businesses and success.
“The fact that our members become attractive propositions to the takeover merchants comes with the territory. Our job is to continue to support and grow true family-owned, independent businesses.”
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