AG Benfield Ltd and A Phillips (Brokers) Ltd have merged to form Benfield Phillips Ltd.
The directors are Guy Benfield and Mike Chase, pictured left and right.
Benfield said the decision to rationalise the businesses had been possible because of the strong synergy between the two. 'We supply not just a full range of UK produce, but also imported fruit and an increasing range of exotics,' he explained.
The move also provides economy of scale at a time when the number of wholesalers, not just on the south coast but across the UK, is still shrinking. The creation of Benfield Phillips Ltd leaves just four companies operating in Southampton.
'It has proved to be an excellent match,' said Chase. 'We can offer our wide range of customers even higher levels of service.' This is a positive development for suppliers of the firm, said Benfield. 'This will add stability and be of great benefit to our suppliers – we are committed to and value them and looking for their continued support as we move the business forward,' he added.
Customers include not just independent retailers in a wide catchment area, but also those in the Isle of Wight and Channel Isles.
