Newry-based food-to-go manufacturer Around Noon has announced that it has acquired Drogheda-based convenience meals supplier Simply Fit Food.
Going forward, Simply Fit Food will continue to trade under its existing brand name, and Simply Fit founders Evelyn Garland and Luke Judge will remain shareholders and continue to operate and manage the business as a unit within Around Noon.
Around Noon is planning to invest substantially in a refresh of the Simply Fit Food brand and product range, including an investment in new environmentally friendly packaging.
"A Foothold In A New And Fast-Growing Segment Of The Market"
Around Noon CEO Gareth Chambers stated, "This acquisition will provide us with a foothold in a new and fast-growing segment of the market. Sales of health-related foods grew to over £773 million in the UK last year and 64% of UK consumers say they have purchased health foods. This is only likely to grow further.
"There is a fantastic synergy between the two companies and the opportunity to cross-sell between our respective client-bases. Luke and Evelyn have created a strong brand and their business shares a very similar ethos to Around Noon, as a company that is passionate about healthy food and about serving its customers. We very much look forward to working with Luke and Evelyn and to growing the business strongly together."
"A Great Coming Together Of Two Very Complementary Businesses"
Meanwhile, Garland and Judge commented, "We have watched Around Noon make a real impact in the food-to-go-space across the UK and Ireland. We have been so impressed by the team's energy, drive and ability to continuously spot trends in the market early and capitalise on them. It's a great coming together of two very complementary businesses and we are incredibly excited about the opportunity."
© 2020 Hospitality Ireland – your source for the latest industry news. Article by Dave Simpson. Click subscribe to sign up for the Hospitality Ireland print edition.
