Yorkshire-based Regal Food Products Group has announced the acquisition of dessert manufacturer Just Desserts for an undisclosed sum.
The deal, backed by Virgin Money UK, sees Just Desserts join the group’s stable of brands including Regal Bakery and Yorkshire Baking Company.
The Shipley-based dessert specialist – which produces a range of more than 130 tarts, cheesecakes and gateaux distributed through the foodservice industry – will continue to run as an independent business, Regal CEO Younis Chaudhry confirmed.
“We are extremely proud to be scaling our portfolio beyond the circle of Regal founded brands and branching out to becoming new owners of Just Desserts – a bakery that harnesses true craftsmanship within the confectionery industry,” Chaudhry said.
“New product development and innovation has always been at the forefront of our work and bringing Just Desserts and its team of craft bakers into the fold enables us to offer flexibility and the scope to develop the growing range of quality products that are on offer within the retail and wholesale sector,” the CEO added.
Chaudhry also revealed that the desserts would be made available through ecommerce platforms.
James O’Dwyer, former managing director of Just Desserts who founded the firm in 1985, said the company was “delighted and excited” to be joining the Regal group of brands. “We know that the Just Desserts brand and all the team behind its success are in the best possible hands to ensure its future growth and prosperity,” he added.
The business has expanded in recent years with Just Desserts taking on a fourth unit in 2018 however further investment was delayed due to the pandemic.
Regal Food Products Group – which specializes in south Asian bakery and confectionery products as well as mainstream confectionery – has a portfolio of over 400 products, distributes food and drink to over 3,000 retail outlets around the UK and exports to over 40 countries.
The acquisition of Just Desserts was advised by Mazars, Clarion Solicitors and BHP Corporate Finance.
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