Wholesaler invests in future growth

Seven Stars, a South-London-based food and drink wholesaler, is expanding its operation with its sights set on growth

The Croydon-based wholesaler, which supplies more than 1,000 restaurants, takeaways, supermarkets and food and drink wholesalers across the UK, is adding three new delivery vehicles to its fleet and expanding its chilled storage space to stock fresh food at its headquarters and distribution centre. It also aims to add another 10 staff to add to its 15-strong team.

Over the last 12 months, the volume of products Seven Stars stocks and supplies nationally has increased by 30 per cent to 1,300 and with support from a six-figure funding package from Lloyds Bank, it expects to grow turnover by 50 per cent during 2023.

Established in 2018, Seven Stars started with just a £36 investment, selling eggs and bread to local cafés. Since then, it has expanded rapidly and now supplies more than 1,000 types of fresh and dried products, with plans to introduce more plant-based products.

“At Seven Stars, we strive to always make sure that our products and service are of the highest quality,” said Naveed Ahmad, director, Seven Stars. “Lloyds Bank’s backing means that remains a priority, and we’re able to expand our offering to meet the needs of restaurants, takeaways and food retailers all over the country.

“It’s important that we’re constantly growing and evolving, because that’s what consumers’ tastes do. We can now stock ingredients for new flavours and products, which will ultimately help the businesses we supply – and us – grow.”

Stephen Clements, regional director at Lloyds Bank said: “Popularity for rapid delivery services has surged in recent years and it’s been a successful time for many restaurants that have capitalised on this. But that’s only been made possible by trusted, reliable suppliers like Seven Stars and its growth is testament to how it delivers on this.

“It’s crucial businesses are able to adapt to trends and meet customers’ demands. Seven Stars is an excellent example of this and we’ll continue to be by their side as they grow and expand.”

Lloyds Bank Naveed Ahmad Seven Stars Stephen Clements