Tony Cholwill will head up the new venture

Tony Cholwill will head up the new venture

Poupart Imports has announced its expansion into the salad and vegetable market.

After 20 years’ trading as the Poupart Group, under management of the Olins family, this is the first time the company has expanded its portfolio outside of the fruit industry. Set up nine years ago, Poupart Imports offers 12 months’ supply of a wide range of products across all seasons to primary wholesalers, foodservice suppliers, packers, retail co-operatives, regional supermarkets and caterers.

Jonathan Olins, managing director of Poupart Imports, said: “The time was right for us to diversify into the salad and vegetable markets and extend our product portfolio; we want to offer our customers a one-stop-shop, as well as expand our customer base. As many of our suppliers are also involved with salads and vegetables, it seemed a natural decision.”

Tony Cholwill, who will head up the new sector, will join Poupart Imports tomorrow. Cholwill, who brings with him 20 years' experience in the salad and vegetable industry, has previously held the position of product group manager of salads at Somerfield, and more recently was a trader for two Canary Island importers. “This is an exciting opportunity for all of us, and for me personally; a chance to head a new venture with the forward-looking company of Poupart,” he said.