A.F. Blakemore & Son Ltd, one of the UK’s largest privately owned family businesses, has become Marks & Spencer’s new wholesale partner for the supply of premium branded goods.
The multi-year agreement will see Blakemore Food Solutions distribute a broad portfolio of premium branded products, delivering via M&S’s regional distribution centre network to more than 550 d M&S stores nationwide.
Blakemore Food Solutions impressed with an experienced and driven management team, underpinned by more than 60 years of expertise in the wholesale distribution sector. Its customer orientation, modern facilities, integrated supply chain systems, and proven operational capability stood out during the tender process, demonstrating an ability to manage complex supply chains efficiently and the capability to deliver operational efficiency while supporting future growth. The company’s national distribution network, supplier relationships, and commitment to service excellence align closely with M&S’s standards.
Carol Welch, CEO of A.F. Blakemore & Son Ltd, said: “At A.F. Blakemore we are committed to delivering consistent quality, agility, and service, and it’s a privilege to partner with M&S to help accelerate growth of their Food business. This partnership reflects the advances made in our wholesale and food service capabilities and the significant investment in our infrastructure, and product ranging. I want to take this opportunity to recognise the teams at A.F. Blakemore and M&S who have made this a smooth transition, and I look forward to building a strong, rewarding and high growth partnership.”
Alex Freudmann, Managing Director at M&S Food, said: “We are thrilled to be backing another British family business, working with A.F Blakemore & Son as our new, trusted wholesale partner. Blakemore will be providing an improved wholesale solution with a full seven days a week service that will increase availability for our stores and customers. As we reshape our business for growth and focus on improving availability and efficiency, choosing the right, trusted partners who can deliver on that is key.”
The transition to A.F. Blakemore as M&S’s wholesale partner has completed without disruption, ensuring continuity of supply to stores and maintaining the high quality and service levels expected by customers.
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