Granarolo’s announcement highlights that this acquisition is aimed at expanding its customer outreach, particularly in London.
As part of its 2026-2029 strategy, Granarolo aims to expand internationally, focusing on the UK and Germany. Chairman Gianpiero Calzolari emphasized, “Consolidation in the UK is an important part of the group’s growth policy abroad.”
He further elaborated, “The plan is to significantly increase the volume of Italian dairy products in the UK, focusing on the Horeca and foodservice markets in London, where West Horsley has consolidated its presence.”
Financial details of the transaction remain undisclosed.
West Horsley Dairy specializes in distributing essential dairy products, including milk, cream, cheese, and yogurt. The company employs 73 staff members and operates 43 refrigerated vehicles, supplying roughly 500 customers, primarily restaurants, pubs, and hotels in London and southeast England.
Founded in 1992 by Philip and Catherine Colton, West Horsley Dairy recorded a turnover of approximately £16m ($21m) in 2024. The Coltons stated that the deal will “maximize the value of West Horsley’s offering.”
They added, “We are confident that it [Granarolo] will maximize the value of West Horsley’s offering by expanding it to the satisfaction of the many customers who have placed their trust in us over the years.”
In the UK, Granarolo distributes a variety of protected designation of origin (PDO) cheeses, including Parmigiano Reggiano, Gorgonzola, and Pecorino, according to UK CEO Anthony Bosco. The UK business unit was established in 2013 as a joint venture between Granarolo and Italian foods specialist Fratelli Bosco, subsequently expanding in 2018 with the acquisition of Midland Food Group, a supplier of diverse food products.
In May 2021, Granarolo assumed sole ownership of its UK joint venture.
Granarolo claims to represent 12.8% of Italian dairy exports to the UK and 9.1% of Italy’s total dairy exports globally.
Looking ahead, overseas sales are projected to comprise around 40% of its total by 2025.
In 2024, the group’s turnover rose to €1.72bn ($2bn) from €1.62bn the previous year. EBITDA increased to €99.5m from €94m, while net income grew to €9.7m from €9.2m.
At the beginning of this year, Granarolo announced a £10m investment in the construction of a new building at its UK head office.
