foodco

Foodco operates a fleet of multi-temperature vehicles throughout Ireland

Henderson Foodservice, part of Northern Irish wholesaler Henderson Group, has added to its expanding portfolio with the acquisition of Foodco, a multi-depot foodservice company.

Foodco operates a fleet of multi-temperature vehicles and specialises in supplying bespoke products throughout Ireland with depots in Lisburn, Co Antrim and Ashbourne, Co Meath.

Cathal Geoghegan, managing director of Henderson Foodservice, said the acquisition, which happened last week, was an exciting opportunity to complement the growth and development in the foodservice sector for both companies.

“The acquisition occurs at an exciting time for us as a business,” he said. “Following a record-breaking turnover in 2018, we’re delighted to welcome the staff and management of Foodco into our company portfolio.

“Foodco is a terrific company with a strong reputation and loyal customer base and we look forward to supporting the Foodco team in solidifying their synergy with customers and suppliers.”

Read more: Fairway Foodservice to quit Unitas

Although acquired as part of Henderson Foodservice, the £12m turnover company will retain the Foodco name and identity operating as a standalone business with the existing management, four strong-board of directors and 50 staff.

Foodco directors Alan Kelly, Gary McIlroy, Barry Monaghan and Robert Walsh said in a statement they were excited by the acquisition: “This is a great opportunity for the staff and ourselves to continue the expansion of the business by being part of one of the largest foodservice companies in Ireland, Henderson Foodservice.

“We would like to thank all our staff, customers and suppliers for all the support over the years. We have developed our business through excellent customer service, product innovation and strong personal relationships. Being a part of Henderson Group will copper-fasten this and provide us with a strong platform to continue our growth throughout Ireland.”

The acquisition is in line with Henderson Foodservice’s future strategy and expansion, which includes a recent £25m investment in new facilities, staff and business development.

Henderson Group CFO Ron Whitten added: “Our purchase of Foodco follows the successful acquisition of BD Foods in July 2018 and will further strengthen the product portfolio at Henderson Foodservice.

“It also presents substantial opportunities for us to increase our collective customer base across the island of Ireland.”