UK frozen foods supplier Central Foods has been acquired by food producer the Gressingham Group.

Northamptonshire-based Central Foods currently sells to over 200 independent wholesalers, as well as larger national and regional wholesalers. Its annual sales reach over £50 million, with the company supplying a range of vegetarian, vegan, meat, poultry, buffet, bakery and dessert lines to the UK hospitality industry.

Central Foods was established in 1996 as a consolidator for the frozen wholesale market servicing the hospitality sector. The company supplies market leaders Bidfood and Brakes, the large wholesale buying groups such as Caterforce and Country Range and smaller independent wholesalers, whilst also servicing large end-user multinational companies such as Greene King, Whitbread and Booker direct.

“We are excited to bring Central Foods into the Gressingham Group,” said William Buchanan, group director at Gressingham. “The business opens up a new market category for us and its reputation for excellent products and service complements our existing presence in the foodservice sector. We look forward to continuing to make frozen food wholesalers’ lives easier.”

Two of the original company founders, Gordon Lauder and Alison Lauder, will remain as directors of the business. Gordon will hand over responsibilities as MD after 28 years at the helm whilst Oli Sampson will move from commercial manager to managing director to ensure the business continues to operate as usual.