Q Catering acquires fresh produce specialist RJ Kingsland & Son

Steve Clarke and Simon Kingsland.

Q Catering has acquired fresh produce specialist RJ Kingsland & Son for an undisclosed sum.

Established in the 1950s, RJ Kingsland & Son is a third-generation family-run business based in Maidstone. It serves catering and retail customers with fresh and chilled produce across Kent.

Following its acquisition, RJ Kingsland & Son will move to a purpose-built temperature-controlled unit at Q Catering’s headquarters in Sittingbourne where the initial focus will be to align its back office functions with those of Q Catering. Managing director Simon Kingsland will remain in his role and the business will retain its branding and continue to serve its existing customer base as an independent fruit and vegetable wholesaler.

Q Catering, also a family-run business, has been supplying caterers in the south east for more than 20 years, providing chilled, ambient and frozen products in addition to food packaging and cleaning essentials.

With a customer base that covers education and foodservice, such as leisure outlets, cafes, restaurants, coffee shops and pubs, the addition of an extensive fresh produce offer will complement Q Catering’s existing range.

“At Q Catering, we pride ourselves on providing our customers with the best products to suit their needs,” said Steve Clarke, managing director. “Joining forces with Kingsland means that now, more than ever, we can provide our customers with a genuine one-stop shop for top-quality produce. Not only will this make their lives easier, but they can be assured of the same fantastic service that we provide already.

“By teaming up with another local, family-run business, we will continue to place the customer right at the heart of what we do. Kingsland, like us, offers flexibility and a personal service, and this partnership will enable us to continue growing and achieve our ambitious goals for the future.”

Simon Kingsland added: “The advantages of this new partnership will ensure the future growth and expansion of the business. Steve Clarke and the team at Q Catering understand the value of family-run businesses and the heritage and passion that comes with them, and they recognise the importance and value of a workforce that understands both the business and the products it sells.”