Completed sale
The Fine Food Company UK Food & Drink Business Acquisition by Hunt’s Food Group
We served up a recipe for growth for our client by sourcing a buyer of heritage…
Knightsbridge is delighted to announce the sale of The Fine Food Company UK, a leading speciality food wholesaler based in Salisbury, Wiltshire. Founded in 2003 by husband-and-wife team Christopher and Karen Ricketts, the company has been acquired by Hunt’s Food Group in a highly significant regional transaction.
Fine Food has built a reputation as one of the South West’s foremost suppliers of speciality produce. Its carefully sourced products include fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, salads, and ambient goods, purchased directly from trusted markets and local suppliers to deliver consistent quality for a loyal customer base.
Clients span a wide range of sectors including hospitality, education, and catering. From hotels, gastro pubs, bakeries, and private caterers to schools, colleges, and the military, the company has supplied hundreds of organisations each year, supported by strong relationships and exceptional levels of personal service.
In 2011, the business relocated to larger premises to meet growing demand. Alongside steady expansion, sustainability has remained a priority. Partnering with Make it Wild, The Fine Food Company has offset 124 tonnes of CO2 through tree planting projects, reinforcing its reputation as a forward-thinking and responsible supplier.
The sale was completed within eight months, with Operations Manager Leanne Boulding leading the process. Administrative Assistant Sonia Smith sourced the buyer, while Regional Commercial Director Martin Baars oversaw the transaction. The deal allows the Ricketts’ to retire after two decades of successful ownership.
The acquirer, Hunt’s Food Group, is a Dorset-based, family-owned business with a proud history dating back to 1890 when its founder Ernest Hunt began farming locally. In 1912, the Group was started, primarily distributing milk, and under successive generations it grew into a major foodservice supplier across the South of England.
Today, Hunt’s is run by Ernest’s grandson Richard and great-grandson Thomas, serving more than 6,000 customers with chilled, frozen, and ambient goods. The acquisition strengthens Hunt’s position in the speciality sector, ensuring Fine Food’s legacy of quality and service continues for years to come.
Knightsbridge wishes Christopher and Karen a happy retirement and Hunt’s Food Group continued success for generations to come.