Lesaffre sells BFP Wholesale to private equity consortium

Thursday, August 7, 2014 - 13:00
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BFP WHOLESALE: In new hands

Though full details were not disclosed, Lesaffre announces the sale of 100% of UK food distributor BFP Wholesale Limited (“BFP”) to private equity consortium Zimt Holding (“Zimt”).

Headquartered in Sevenoaks, BFP is a nationwide, one-stop wholesale supplier of ambient, chilled and frozen food products.

The company’s products are distributed from strategically located depots via a fleet of multi-temperature vehicles to more than 4,000 customers throughout the UK, including Krispy Kreme and Greggs.

BFP has grown consistently over the years and in 2013 sold 50,000 tonnes of food products, generating a turnover of over £75m.

Marc Casier, Lesaffre’s General Manager Baking Western Europe, conducted the disposal, said: “The sale reflects a strategic choice to focus on our core activity of yeast production & sale and we are very pleased to have found an ambitious buyer for BFP.”

The consortium, led by David Burresi and Sebastian Sipp, combines more than 70 years of experience in private equity, M&A and senior management.

David Burresi Consortium Leader from Lesaffre, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with BFP.

“With a strong management team and a well-established presence in the UK’s multi-billion pound food distribution market, BFP is ideally positioned for growth.

“We look forward to supporting management in realising the company’s potential.”

Nick Harris, Managing Director of BFP Wholesale, said: “In Zimt Holding we have found a strong partner that is fully aligned with our goals and has the resources to help us drive the next phase of the company’s development.

“Seasoned executives will join the board to support us in our strategy.”

Lesaffre was advised by consumer advisory firm Leopold Capital Partners and Linklaters.

Zimt Holding was advised by Addleshaw Goddard, with GE Capital providing financing.

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