With the September 6th deadline looming for members of Landmark Wholesale and Today’s Group to vote, support continues to roll in for the buying groups’ proposed merger.
James Russell of AF Blakemore, a Landmark Wholesale member says his company will vote yes: “We are looking forward to the prospect of being a member of a larger independent wholesale group. The increased scale will improve terms, enable us to increase own label ranges and provide members with a stronger forum to exchange ideas and best practices with like-minded wholesalers.”
Today’s member Jim Cummiskey of Failte Foods agrees: “The feedback from our members has been tremendous. All the members I have spoken to have indicated a positive vote. Their view is that by adopting the best elements of two great groups into one, we will be easier to deal with and even more effective.”
Nick Ramsden, Deebee Wholesale, another Today’s Group member is also enthusiastic: “This is such a critical time for independent wholesale to galvanise itself and I’ve seen a real surge of support from members to create something bigger and better to partner more effectively with suppliers.”
Suppliers are also voicing their support for the move, recognising the opportunity the proposed merger presents.
Dave Nicholls, Wholesale Director, Nestlé UK Ltd said: “Nestlé believe the proposed creation of Unitas Wholesale is fantastic news, both for its members and the wholesale sector in general. Nestlé has historically been a strong supporter of both buying groups, but it is the opportunity to sharpen focus with an enlarged ‘selling group’ which excites us most.”
Matt Collins, Sales Director – Convenience, Wholesale, Discounters and Foodservice, KP Snacks is also on board: “KP Snacks welcomes the proposed merger of Landmark Wholesale and Today’s Group and the creation of a new buying group with real scale and reach. We look forward to understanding the resulting business growth opportunities and exploring how we can work more efficiently together.”
Simon Grey, MD, Boost Drinks is excited about the opportunity: “As a brand totally focussed on the independent retail sector, it’s critical that wholesalers are in as good shape as possible and keep moving forwards in an ever-changing landscape. The opportunities that can be created by Unitas Wholesale excite us greatly and will hopefully be the platform to enable our relationships and results to move to an even higher level.”
The member vote closes on 6 September and it is planned that the outcome will be communicated on 7 September.
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