The Kitwave Wholesale Group has completed its second deal in less than a month with the acquisition of Charles Saunders Foodservice.
Charles Saunders will now join the group’s foodservice division and become a member of The Country Range buying group, with Kitwave confirming there will be no changes to the wholesaler’s depot, operations, sales or head office teams.
The existing leadership team will also remains firmly in place, with Darren Gaulton appointed as executive director and Kim Carwardine as managing director. The business will continue to trade under the Charles Saunders brand. Customers and suppliers will also continue working with the same teams and contacts, with no change to the way the business operates day-to-day.
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Darren Gaulton, executive director at Charles Saunders, said: “Charles Saunders has built a strong reputation over many years by putting customers first, investing in our people and delivering the high levels of service we’re known for. The business has enjoyed significant growth over recent years while remaining true to the values that have made Charles Saunders what it is today. Becoming part of Kitwave represents the next stage in that journey.
“Our priority has always been to ensure the business is well placed for long-term sustainable growth. This partnership gives us an excellent platform to continue to build, invest further in our people and continue delivering the exceptional service our customers expect.”
Ben Maxted, chief executive at Kitwave Wholesale Group, added: “Charles Saunders is a highly respected foodservice business with an outstanding reputation across the South West, a loyal customer base and an experienced management team. Its customer-focused approach and strong family values make it an excellent fit for the Kitwave Group. The acquisition further strengthens our foodservice division and supports our long-term growth strategy. We’re delighted to welcome the Charles Saunders team to Kitwave and look forward to supporting the business as it continues to build on its success.”
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Charles Saunders has grown its regional presence in recent years through a combination of organic expansion and strategic acquisitions, and will now join Kitwave alongside Creed Foodservice, Total Foodservice, WestCountry Food Holdings and Fife Creamery.
Last month Kitwave acquired Scotland-based Fife Creamery as part of its long-term strategy to establish operations north of the border.
