The British chocolatier Whitakers has been crafting luxurious confectionery for retail, private label, and food service markets since 1889. With a legacy of excellence, the brand is a staple in the industry.
Recently, after a 17-year partnership with Bramble Foods Group, Whitakers has joined forces with this ambient food producer and distributor. This merger marks a significant milestone for both family-owned brands, strengthening their market presence.
Bramble Foods, founded in 2008 by brothers Nigel and Tony Foster, along with Chris Neville and Ken Osborne, has solidified its reputation within the UK market. Operating from its headquarters in Market Harborough, Bramble Foods offers a diverse array of premium products, including confectionery, traditional cakes, award-winning preserves, and chutneys, all while actively supporting local employment and suppliers.
This acquisition follows last year’s strategic move, in which Bramble Foods incorporated The Bay Tree Food Co. into its portfolio. The latest acquisition highlights Bramble Foods’ commitment to expanding its offerings and reinforcing its presence in the UK food manufacturing sector.
Tony Foster, managing director of Bramble Foods, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition: “We are delighted to welcome Whitakers Chocolates to the Bramble Foods Group and look forward to working with William and his team to further develop the business.”
“Whitakers is a well-run business with a long history of producing excellent products. This, coupled with a broad customer base and dedicated team of employees, attracted us to the business. As a family, Whitakers is our longest-standing supplier, having worked together for over 40 years.”
The integration of Whitakers will enhance Bramble Foods’ ability to provide quality products to retailers and food service partners across the nation.
“As a fourth-generation member of the Whitaker family, chocolate has been at the very heart of my life for as long as I can remember,” stated William Whitaker, managing director of Whitakers Chocolates.
“I am delighted that Whitakers Chocolates have joined the Bramble Foods Group as it is a wonderful opportunity to share our knowledge and invest for the future together. While I will always carry the immense pride and heritage we’ve built over 135 years, I recognize that now is the right time to pass on our cherished traditions to a company that can develop the business further.”
The management team at Whitakers, led by William Whitaker, will remain intact post-acquisition, ensuring the artisanal values and traditions that have defined the brand for over a century continue to thrive.
Bramble Foods has been supported by LDC, a private equity investor within Lloyds Banking Group, since 2022. Since then, LDC has empowered Tony Foster and the broader management team as they pursue their organic and acquisitive growth strategy in the dynamic arena of food manufacturing.
