Support continues for proposed merger
Members and suppliers voice support for merger ahead of deadline for votes
Ahead of today’s deadline for members of Landmark Wholesale and Today’s Group to vote for the buying groups’ proposed merger, support continues to roll in.
Landmark Wholesale member James Russell of AF Blakemore said that the Midlands-based wholesaler is in favour of the merger. “We are looking forward to the prospect of being a member of a larger independent wholesale group. The increased scale will undoubtedly improve terms, enable us to increase own label ranges and provide members with a stronger forum for the interchange of ideas and best practices with other like-minded wholesalers.”
Today’s member Jim Cummiskey of Failte Foods agrees: “The feedback from our members has been tremendous and all the members I have spoken to have indicated a positive vote. Their view is that by adopting the best elements of two great groups into one, we will be easier to deal with and even more effective.”
There was a similar message from fellow Today’s Group member Nick Ramsden, Deebee Wholesale. “This is such a critical time for independent wholesale to galvanise itself and I’ve seen a real surge of support from members to create something bigger and better to partner more effectively with suppliers.”
And it’s not just members who are supporting the move. Suppliers are also voicing their support, recognising the opportunity posed by the proposed merger.
“Nestlé believe the proposed creation of Unitas Wholesale is fantastic news, both for its members and the wholesale sector in general. Nestlé has historically been a strong supporter of both buying groups, but it is the opportunity to sharpen focus with an enlarged ‘selling group’ which excites us most.” Dave Nicholls, Wholesale Director, Nestlé UK Ltd
“KP Snacks welcomes the proposed merger of Landmark Wholesale and Today’s Group and the creation of a new buying group with real scale and reach. We look forward to understanding the resulting business growth opportunities and exploring how we can work more efficiently together.” Matt Collins, Sales Director – Convenience, Wholesale, Discounters and Foodservice, KP Snacks
“As a brand totally focused on the independent retail sector, it’s critical that wholesalers are in as good shape as possible and keep moving forwards in an ever-changing landscape. The opportunities that can be created by Unitas Wholesale excite us greatly and will hopefully be the platform to enable our relationships and results to move to an even higher level.” Simon Gray, MD, Boost Drinks
The member vote closes on 6 September and it is planned that the outcome will be communicated on 7 September 2018.
Any queries should be directed to Stephenie Shaw at The Bright Media Agency and not to Landmark Wholesale or Today’s Group directly. Please call 0116 296 0133 or email: stephenie@thebrightmediaagency.com
Blakemore Boost Drinks Deebee Wholesale Failte Foods KP Snacks Landmark Wholesale merger Nestle Today's Group Unitas Wholesale
