UB deal in doubt

Media reports suggest that the sale of United Biscuits (UB) is in doubt after talks with potential buyer, Bright Food Group, fell through. The Shanghai-based company had visited UB’s British factories last month after UB’s private equity owners, Blackstone Group and PAI Partners of France, entered exclusive talks over a £2bn deal.

Back to its roots

Renshawnapier Thornbury, part of the Real Good Food Company, has decided to go back to its roots and has rebranded itself as Garrett Ingredients the firm’s original family name when it was first formed in 1948. It supplies baking, sugar-based and dairy products to a large number of UK food manufacturers and suppliers, as well as offering technical expertise.

Topping pie contract

Doncaster-based The Topping Pie Company has secured a listing in Booths for its new Chilli Pork Pie. The firm has been supplying the supermarket since 2001.

Scholarship extension

The Manufacturing Institute has extended four of its 50% scholarship schemes, including its new Manufacturing Management Development Programme, for employees of small and medium businesses, with no previous formal higher education qualifications.