Booker acquires Ritter and Classic Drinks

Food and drink wholesaler Booker has acquired speciality foods supplier Ritter and pub wholesaler Classic Drinks.

The trading business and and assets of Classic Drinks has been acquired from Classic Drinks Ltd, a subsidiary of Halewood International Limited, for around £4m.

It supplies wine, beer, spirits and non-alcoholic drinks to pubs, clubs and licensed premises.

Classic operates from eight depots in the Midlands and the North of England and has current annual sales of approximately £30m.

Ritter is a speciality fine foods supplier to leading restaurants, hotels and contract caterers and was acquired for a total consideration of £14.5m. Ritter has current annual sales of approximately £30m.

Ritter and Classic will continue to operate under their existing management teams and brands, as part of Booker Direct.

The announcement comes as Booker revealed a 5.5% rise in sales to £1.7bn for the 24 weeks to 10 September with profit before tax up 24% to £36.9m.

Internet sales were up 35.4% to £244.8m.

Commercial director Bryan Drew is retiring from the Board and Guy Farrant has been appointed managing director of the UK cash and carry business.

"Booker is helping more customers compete by improving our choice, prices and service," said Booker chief executive Charles Wilson.

"Our sales growth is good and our plans to broaden the business are progressing well. We are delighted to bring Ritter and Classic into the Booker Group.

"Each company brings new expertise to Booker and will help the Group offer an even better choice and service to caterers in the UK."