North Shields’ Kitwave Group maintains growth with £29 million deal

An independent wholesaler has continued a South West expansion after clinching a £29 million deal.

Kitwave Group has bought WestCountry Food Holdings.

The move for the produce wholesaler follows a £24.5 million takeover of Devon’s M.J. Baker Foodservice earlier in the year.

Bosses say WestCountry will become part of Kitwave’s foodservice division, which includes M.J. Baker, as well as David Miller Frozen Foods and HB Clark & Co.

Paul Young, chief executive at North Shields-based Kitwave Group, said: “This enables us to expand our product range to include high-quality fresh produce.

“We are delighted to welcome the WestCountry team and look forward to further extending our nationwide reach.

“The group continues to trade well and, despite wider macroeconomic pressures, the directors believe the outlook remains positive.”

WestCountry reported audited turnover of £29.7 million and £3.9 million pre-tax profit for the financial year ended January 1, 2022.