United Wholesale Scotland acquires Time Wholesale Services

United Wholesale Scotland (UWS) has acquired Time Wholesale Services for an undisclosed sum, marking its expansion into England.

UWS currently trades from two depots in Glasgow and one in Grangemouth, and it will begin operating TWS’s depot in Rainham, Essex, on 1 July. Both wholesalers are members of Unitas.

UWS has more than 500 stores under the Day-Today and USave banners and will use the purchase to expand its fascias across London.

Managing director Chris Gallacher said that the acquisition forms part of the cash & carry operator’s plans to achieve more than £500 million in revenue. “UWS and TWS are independent family wholesalers that share the same core beliefs regarding customers, suppliers, and colleagues. We both pride ourselves on leading the way in innovation and technology, which makes this acquisition a perfect fit,” he commented.

Chris Gallacher: ‘This deal signifies a clear step forward in our plans for expansion.’

“At a time of consolidation and change in the sector, we have recognised the need to invest both in our business and the wholesale sector. We are firmly focused on identifying opportunities for growth and this deal signifies a clear step forward in our plans for expansion. We have some incredibly exciting plans for the London depot which we will share at the right time, and we look forward to taking over in July.”

TWS managing director Sony Bihal is staying on to head up the Essex-based operation. “It’s a real opportunity to strengthen our current market and diversify into new markets, not only in retail but catering as well,” he said. “The opportunity to showcase the UWS award-winning Day-Today and Usave symbol groups on the streets of London is extremely exciting.

“Our customers, suppliers, and colleagues in London will continue to receive elevated levels of support that they have always received from Time Wholesale Services. It is business as usual for now, but in the coming weeks, the trading team will be reaching out to discuss the opportunities that this acquisition will bring for both our suppliers and customers.”