Entrepreneur Ranjit Singh Boparan – owner of Roberts and Brace’s bakeries – has invested in food-to-go business Simply Lunch.
Based in South London, Simply Lunch supplies sandwiches, wraps, salads, sushi, snack pots and bakery products to customers ranging from retailers and travel operators to independent foodservice and convenience customers.
Boparan has invested in the business through the Boparan Investment Fund, known as 11:11 Capital Partners Limited, which has been set up to invest in businesses by acquiring a strategic shareholding. Boparan said the founders and existing management teams of businesses it invests in will retain a significant ownership interest and continue leading day-to-day operations, with 11:11 Capital Partners providing strategic guidance, expertise and support to accelerate organic growth, acquisitions and further investment.
11:11 Capital Partners said the new partnership will combine Simply Lunch’s food-to-go expertise, strong customer relationships and appetite for innovation with the strategic acumen, investment and network offered by the Boparan business.
“Simply Lunch is an impressive business with a strong heritage, trusted customer relationships and a commitment to quality and innovation,” added Ranjit Boparan. “We look forward to supporting its long-term growth through our strategic expertise, investment and network.”
Simply Lunch managing director Sam Page described the deal as an important step in the next stage of the development of the business.
“We have significant opportunities ahead of us and 11:11 Capital Partners shares our values and ambition for the future,” he explained. “Their investment and strategic support will help us build on our strengths, accelerate growth and create further opportunities. As shareholders and leaders of Simply Lunch, we will remain in our roles and continue to operate the business.”
Meanwhile, Boparan Private Office has announced a £500,000 investment in biscuits supplier Little Treats Bakery, part of the Roberts bakery business it acquired via a pre-pack deal a year ago.
A new production line at the site in Winsford, Cheshire, will enable Little Treats to produce chocolate and protein clusters, with the opportunity to expand further in the treating sector with more unbaked and baked products as well as plain and chocolate coated lines.
Recruitment is also under way for 50 new staff across Little Treats in production, engineering, and operational roles. The 60,600sq ft premises currently employs 135 staff.
The move is described as a significant step forward in the business’ recovery and growth following the devastating fire at the Roberts bread plant in nearby Northwich.
“This investment is a real vote of confidence in Little Treats, our people and what we can achieve here,” said Little Treats site director James Rostron. “The serious fire in 2023 had a devastating impact, but the team has shown tremendous resilience through very difficult times.”
“Adding chocolate and protein clusters gives us another platform for growth and opens up opportunities with new products, customers and markets.”
No comments yet