A.F. Blakemore Acquires Philpotts Store Chain

February 27, 2019

A.F. Blakemore has acquired the Philpotts chain of prepared-food stores, adding an additional 22 stores to the company’s retail estate.

The purchase, announced on February 14th, gives the company direct access to a specialist food-for-now operator and will bring a new fresh format directly into the business.

The chain previously formed part of the Patisserie Valerie group and will continue to trade under the Philpotts name.

A.F. Blakemore Chairman Peter Blakemore commented: “As part of A.F. Blakemore’s strategic planning process, the company has identified changing consumer trends and the growing need for food-for-now and food-for-later solutions.

“Bringing Philpotts under A.F. Blakemore ownership enhances our current retail offer and is aligned with our strategic retail and food service plan. 

"In addition, their online ordering service provides the business with insight into click and collect functionality within a store environment.

“We are delighted to welcome the 210 Philpotts colleagues who have transferred to A.F. Blakemore following the purchase.”

Philpotts was established in 1985 in Chester and has 22 stores located across the UK.

The business has been providing customers with fresh handmade products for more than 30 years, serving customers from their retail stores alongside catering for corporate customers for meetings and events.

A.F. Blakemore’s experience and knowledge of the food service and convenience sectors will provide new opportunities to develop the brand, while there will also be opportunities to bring elements of the Philpotts offer into the wider Blakemore business.

This new standalone division will be managed by Acting Head of Retail Matt Teague and supported by the Blakemore Retail operations team.

Store Locations

Bennetts Hill, Birmingham
Bridgewater Place, Leeds
Brunswick Street, Liverpool
New York Street, Manchester
Victoria Street, Bristol

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