Scotland’s largest wholesaler moves into England
United Wholesale Scotland is venturing south of the border in July with the purchase of Time Wholesale Services’ East London premises
As part of a five-year growth plan announced this year, the acquisition adds a fourth cash and carry outlet to the Unitas member’s three depots in Scotland’s central belt.
“This is a significant first step towards achieving our goal of exceeding £500 million in revenue,” said Chris Gallagher, United Wholesale Scotland (UWS) managing director.
“UWS and TWS are independent family wholesalers that share the same core beliefs regarding customers, suppliers, and colleagues. We both pride ourselves on leading the way in innovation and technology, which makes this acquisition a perfect fit.
“At a time of consolidation and change in the sector, we have recognised the need to invest both in our business and the wholesale sector. We are firmly focused on identifying opportunities for growth and this deal signifies a clear step forward in our plans for expansion. We have some incredibly exciting plans for the London depot which we will share at the right time, and we look forward to taking over in July.”
Sony Bihal, MD of Time Wholesale Services, will continue to lead the London team. He said: “This is a positive and exciting next step for Time Wholesale Services, it is an opportunity for growth for me and our London team. We are delighted to be joining the UWS family, it’s a real opportunity to strengthen our current market and diversify into new markets, not only in retail but catering as well. The opportunity to showcase the UWS award-winning Day Today and Usave symbol groups on the streets of London, alongside their GDK franchise business, is extremely exciting”.
“Our customers, suppliers, and colleagues in London will continue to receive elevated levels of support that they have always received from Time Wholesale Services. It is business as usual for now, but in the coming weeks, the trading team will be reaching out to discuss the opportunities that this acquisition will bring for both our suppliers and customers.”
Unitas Wholesale Managing Director John Kinney said: “UWS is a dynamic and forward-thinking member of Unitas and we are thrilled to see them bringing their exceptional proposition to retailers in London and the South of England.
“Independent wholesalers are not standing still in a challenging market — they are actively seeking our growth opportunities. This move by UWS is a clear example of this ambition in action, and there is more to come. Despite economic pressures and unhelpful interventions from the Government, our wholesalers continue to invest in supporting independent retailers, the foodservice sector, and on-trade customers.
“With its award-winning depots in Scotland, UWS is renowned for delivering outstanding customer service. Their ever-expanding delivery capabilities, innovative use of technology to highlight supplier investment, and strong retailer support make them a valuable asset to any region and retailers south of the border can expect a first-class experience.
“We wish the entire UWS & TWS team every success during this exciting transition and Unitas looks forward to supporting them with our promotional campaigns and the Plan for Profit store development programme as they continue to grow their Day Today and Usave symbol group footprint.”
Chris Gallagher John Kinney Sony Bihal Time Wholesale Services Unitas Wholesale United Wholesale Scotland
