Sysco acquires catering butcher Fairfax Meadow

Sysco GB has acquired Fairfax Meadow, one of the UK’s leading catering butchers, from Hilton Foods.

The acquisition marks the latest stage in Sysco GB’s strategy to grow its centre-of-plate proposition and become the UK’s leading fresh meat supplier to the foodservice sector.

Fairfax Meadow has been established for more than 50 years. The company, which employs 360 people, operates from production and distribution premises in Derby, Enfield and Eastleigh.

It will add additional meat manufacturing capability to Sysco GB and build on the recent acquisition of Campbell’s Prime Meat, which operates across Scotland and the north of England, giving Sysco GB a national meat distribution network.

Fairfax Meadow will continue to operate as a separate business, but will now have the added benefit of specialist foodservice support, with Sysco’s operating companies offering new routes to market.

Paul Nieduszynski, CEO of Sysco GB, said: “The acquisition of Fairfax Meadow is a crucial next step in our plan to build leadership in the critical meat category.

“Fairfax Meadow is a great business with skilled and experienced colleagues and a superb reputation for producing quality meat, combined with great levels of service.

“We believe this is a complementary fit for Sysco GB, strengthening our fresh meat proposition across the country and bringing even greater value to our customers.”

Penny Tomlinson, managing director at Fairfax Meadow, said: “This acquisition acknowledges and further strengthens our position as one of the market-leading meat suppliers to the foodservice industry.

“Sysco GB is a business with a deep-rooted understanding and unparalleled reach within the fast-moving foodservice sector. We are proud to bring our extensive meat industry knowledge and team expertise to complement Sysco GB’s existing strengths.

“I look forward to continuing to lead the business with my experienced and loyal team, ensuring a seamless transition for all customers and stakeholders.”