19 Oct Today’s on-trade arm increases choice and range for the UK’s pub market
Essex-based Hills Prospect has become the latest major wholesaler to join the on-trade division of Today’s Group, the UK’s largest buying group.
Hills Prospect was previously one of the largest members of former on-trade buying consortium National Drinks Distributors (NDD) and has an annual turnover of £45m.
Following the demise of Waverley TBS in October 2012 there are now very few established routes to market for suppliers and manufacturers
Managing director of Today’s Group Bill Laird said: “Following the demise of Waverley TBS in October 2012 there are now very few established routes to market for suppliers and manufacturers, which is an unhealthy position for all. With our rapidly expanding on-trade membership we have created a new presence in the on-trade sector providing pubs, bars and other on-trade outlets with a wider choice and range of services via our local and regional members.”
Phil Merritt, purchasing director of Hills Prospect said: “When NDD ceased operating at the end of 2013 we stood back and evaluated various options for our business. We concluded that with its already significant on-trade presence, Today’s would be an excellent strategic fit for us. We are looking forward to working with the Today’s team and fellow members.”
Mr Laird added: “We are delighted that Hills Prospect has chosen to join our group and become another key operator within our growing on-trade division. They are a highly respected major regional player, servicing the south east and central London and will help to shape the future of our on-trade business.”
Today’s Group is the largest independent buying group in the UK with purchasing power in excess of £5.7bn. The Today’s on-trade division was established in November 2013 and has a membership of 25 including former NDD and existing Today’s members operating in the on-trade arena.
Ends
Notes to editors
Today’s Group has more than 160 independent cash & carry and delivered wholesale members operating out of over 200 depots across the UK. Today’s also operates a Symbol Group with over 400 participating independent retailers and 1,600 retail club members in England, Scotland and Ireland.
Hills Prospect is an on-trade specialist based in Romford, Essex and was established in 1977. The business supplies beers, ciders, cask ales, soft drinks, spirits, wines and snacks to the south east and central London. For more information visit http://www.hillsprospect.com
For more information, images or media interviews please contact: Anita Oakhill, brand marketing manager, Today’s Group: anita.oakhill@todays.co.uk; 0844 877 1432; www.todaysgroup.co.uk
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