Kitwave acquires Kirkcaldy-based wholesaler Fife Creamery

Kitwave Wholesale Group has acquired Kirkcaldy-based wholesaler Fife Creamery.

Ben Maxted: ‘This acquisition strengthens our presence in Scotland and represents an important step in our long-term growth strategy.’

With longstanding relationships across Scotland’s retail and hospitality sectors, Fife Creamery will become a cornerstone of Kitwave’s operations in Scotland. It will continue to trade under the Fife Creamery name.

The Simpson family, which owns Fife Creamery, is preparing to exit the business, but there will be no changes to Fife Creamery’s depot, operations, sales or head office teams. Customers and suppliers will continue working with the same contacts, with no change to the way the business operates day to day.

The existing leadership structure remains in place, with Steve Appolinari staying on as managing director.

As part of the acquisition, Fife Creamery will also become a member of the Country Range Group.

Graeme Simpson, chairman of Fife Creamery, said: “Our objectives have always been to protect the established Fife Creamery name, remain a vital partner for Scottish retail and hospitality, secure the right investment for our Kirkcaldy infrastructure, and ensure sustainable long-term growth. I am extremely pleased to say that all these goals have been achieved.

“Fife Creamery’s core ethos and pioneering approach to first-class food distribution will continue to guide the business as we enter this exciting new chapter. For seven decades, our success has been built on the foundation of the Simpson family’s values and our proud Scottish heritage. Alongside these principles, our passionate team (our food wholesale heroes), our culture and our commitment to exceptional service will remain central to everything we do.

“This partnership gives us the investment, scale and support to build on that success while remaining true to the values that have made Fife Creamery what it is today. Most importantly, it ensures Fife Creamery can continue to invest in its people, its customers and the communities it has proudly served for generations.”

Ben Maxted, CEO at Kitwave Wholesale Group, said: “Fife Creamery has established itself as one of Scotland’s most respected food wholesalers, with a strong market position, an experienced leadership team and a customer-focused approach that aligns closely with our own values.

“This acquisition strengthens our presence in Scotland and represents an important step in our long-term growth strategy. We look forward to working closely with the team in Kirkcaldy and investing in the business as it continues to build on its success.”

Published Date: July 2, 2026

Category: Wholesale Industry News