17th Dec 2007 - 00:00
Abstract
Food service provider BaxterStorey is integrating Holroyd Howe into its operation, presenting a “dynamic” UK catering business, with a combined turnover of £178m.
A statement on the deal says: "From January 1 2008, Holroyd Howe's business will operate as BaxterStorey, creating the UK's most successful independent specialist food service management operation." BaxterStorey, now the fifth largest supplier of its type in the UK, was formed in 2004 after the merger of Wilson Storey Halliday and BaxterSmith, creating the country's largest independent business caterer. Led by founders Keith Wilson, Alastair Storey and William Baxter, in just three years the company has expanded its client portfolio by 68%, grown turnover by almost 60%, and gained numerous awards recognising the company role in its sector and British industry. Founded by Rick Holroyd and Nick Howe in mid-1997, Holroyd Howe has delivered substantive year-on-year growth and built an enviable reputation as a contract caterer renowned for its quality food, service and management expertise. Speaking about the link, Alastair Storey of BaxterStorey, said: "Holroyd Howe represents a great fit with our business. Their operating ethos closely matches ours making it a natural step for the enlarged business to continue focusing on our signature fresh food, great service and great people approach. "Importantly we now have greater scale and a deeper UK footprint. This provides us with an excellent platform to build future growth and to deliver our high quality services throughout the length and breadth of the nation." Rick Holroyd of Holroyd Howe, gave further insight into the news: "Together our management and operating teams are a formidable unit housing the sector's most experienced executives and outstanding talent." * At the same time BaxterStorey's parent company, WSH, has grown its niche food service operations by acquiring the contemporary deli retailer, benugo with five high street retail units across central London - the latest at the new St Pancras Station. It also operates concessions within office premises and at leading venues., including an outlet at the V&A Museum, awarded the Best Designed Bar and Restaurant Award in November.