Leeds-based wholesaler Gilbert Thompson has bought fellow Northern firm Sharrocks Fresh Produce in a move that will double its fresh produce handling capacity.
Food and drinks retailerBooths bought Sharrocks’ distribution businessjust under two years ago, but the wholesale side of the business was retained by the company’s financial director until now.
The purchase will give family-run Gilbert Thompson a comprehensive distribution range across the north of the country, as it adds Sharrocks’ network of north west England and Cumbria to its own portfolio.
Gilbert Thompson director Richard Thompson said the company will continue to trade under the Sharrocks Fresh Produce name, as it has a lot of “goodwill and history”.
“This is an important purchase for us as we have now doubled our fresh produce handling,” Thompson said. “The companies will run separately but we have effectively bought all shares in the Sharrocks Fresh Produce business.”
Richard’s brother Daniel will become managing director of the new venture, while the former director is retiring from the business.
