Sterling Supergroup celebrates its 50th anniversary

A Houses of Parliament dinner heads a varied programme of events that has has been arranged by Sterling Supergroup to mark its 50th birthday.

Formed in 1966 in London by Nick Luton as Independent Cash & Carry Group (which came to be known simply as ICCG), it later changed its name to Sterling Supergroup to reflect the name of its growing own-label range.

By then it had relocated to Chelmsford, Essex, with Anne Tomlinson working alongside Luton controlling the group’s interests. It then moved 10 miles away to its present location in Maldon.

Now with a turnover of £385 million, and its 40 members operating from 57 depots, the group – headed by chief executive Vanessa Cooper – has changed emphasis in recent years from retail to catering.

In addition to selling leading brands, its wholesalers also market the burgeoning Sterling Caterers Essentials range of more than 300 lines, commanding annual turnover of more than £22 million.

The Houses of Parliament golden anniversary dinner for members is being held on 9 April. Additionally, the Sterling 50th birthday programme includes a golf day and exhibition on 14 and 15 March and the annual conference and exhibition, which this year takes place at Cameron House, Loch Lomond from 22-24 September.

“During the course of this year,” said Cooper, “our members have agreed to work together to raise £50,000 (£1,000 for each year of our existence) for charity. And members of our head office team will also be raising funds by taking part in the ‘Tough Mudder’ in May.”

Tel: Sterling Supergroup (01621) 856300