The Wholesale Group, the buying group created at the start of the year by combining the members of Confex and Fairway Foodservice, has revealed solid trading figures.
The group, which has an annual collective turnover of nearly £4.5bn, reported 2.47% growth in value and a 2.13% rise in volume during the first half of 2025.
Six months on from the group’s launch, joint Managing Director, Tom Gittins, said: “We’re absolutely delighted that we are delivering on our promises to achieve growth for both members and suppliers.”
He added: “At our launch, we announced that The Wholesale Group was the buying group the sector needs, and we are delighted to provide an efficient, powerful route to market for suppliers, while celebrating and championing the incredible family businesses that make up our membership.”
The figures were announced at the group’s first charity golf day, which took place on Tuesday at The Rushmore Golf Club, attended by a mix of wholesalers and suppliers.
The event was sponsored by Coca-Cola European Partners (CCEP), Carlsberg Britvic, and Kellanova, and included a meeting of The Wholesale Group’s board.
Gavin Simpson, a National Account Manager at Carlsberg Britvic, commented: “This event was a fantastic opportunity to network with key wholesalers, reviewing a fantastic start to the year and planning for the second half of the year. The Wholesale Group events are always meticulously planned, which makes it easy for us to gain the most value from time away from the desk.”
Members also agreed with Ryan Torrible, Operations Director from North West Teas, saying: “We had a fantastic time in Dorset this week for The Wholesale Group event. The one-to-one business sessions were really well timed so that we can ensure we maximise opportunities for the rest of the year.”
NAM Implications:
- Given the impact of Lockdown fallout on foodservice…
- …any means of scaling buying power has to help.
- Done in an environment that facilitates optimising mutual needs…
- …makes membership of The Wholesale Group a benefit.
- Networking facilitates the process…
