Bramble Foods Group makes major acquisition of Whitakers Chocolates

A key strategic move has been made by Leicestershire-based Bramble Foods Group, a specialist in bakery and preserves, which has acquired fourth generation confectionery business, Whitakers Chocolates, reports Neill Barston.

The well-established Yorkshire business has a heritage dating back to 1889, and has enjoyed notable success with domestic markets, as well as recently exploring US manufacturing under its present MD, William Whitaker, who has seen the company grow its premium brand chocolate ranges.

For its part, Bramble Foods enthused that the move will enhance its overall portfolio, uniting two iconic family-owned brands with a shared commitment to quality and heritage, having enjoyed a longstanding relationship with its newly-acquired business.

The terms of the deal struck for the business have not been released, though Confectionery Production understands that the move will not result in any job losses, and there will be no change within the branding of acquired manufacturer.

Notably, Whitakers Chocolates has continued to be at the heart of British chocolate-making for 135 years, crafting luxury confectionery for retail, private label, and food service markets. The acquisition builds on a trusted working relationship spanning 17 years, during which Whitakers has been a key supplier to Bramble Foods Group.

Tony Foster, Managing Director of Bramble Foods, welcomed the deal. He said: “We are delighted to welcome Whitakers Chocolates to the Bramble Foods Group and look forward to working with William and his team to further develop the business. Whitakers is a well-run business with a long history of producing excellent products, this coupled with a broad customer base and dedicated team of employees attracted us to the business. As a family, Whitakers is our longest standing supplier having worked together for over 40 years.”

Founded in 2008 by brothers Nigel and Tony Foster, alongside Chris Neville and Ken Osborne, Bramble Foods has grown into one of the UK’s most respected food groups. From its Market Harborough headquarters, it produces a wide range of premium products, including its largest category confectionery, traditional cakes, award-winning preserves, and chutneys, while supporting local employment and suppliers.

The addition of Whitakers Chocolates to its portfolio enhances Bramble Foods’ capability to deliver exceptional products to retailers and food service partners nationwide.

William Whitaker, Managing Director of Whitakers Chocolates, explained that the deal would help secure the next chapter of the company’s development. He commented: “As a fourth-generation member of the Whitaker family, chocolate has been at the very heart of my life for as long as I can remember. I am delighted that Whitakers Chocolates have joined the Bramble Foods Group as it is a wonderful opportunity to share our knowledge and invest for the future together. Whilst I will always carry the immense pride and heritage we’ve built over 135 years, I recognise that now is the right time to pass on our cherished traditions to a company that can develop the business further.”

As the company added, is very much “business as usual” for both companies, with the Whitakers Chocolates management team, led by William Whitaker, remaining in place, preserving the proud artisanal traditions that have defined the brand for over a century.

According to Whitakers, the acquisition is built on mutual respect, long-term collaboration, and shared family values. Together, Bramble Foods and Whitakers Chocolates look forward to a future of investment, innovation, growth, and delivering the highest standards of quality to customers in the UK and overseas.

Bramble Foods was backed by LDC, the private equity investor which is part of Lloyds Banking Group, in 2022 and since then LDC has supported Tony and the wider management team as they deliver their organic and acquisitive growth strategy.

Marketing Manager, Gemma Whitaker spoke to Confectionery Production about the move, and explained that there was a strong belief that the  : “This acquisition marks an exciting milestone for Whitakers Chocolates and our future. Partnering with Bramble Foods gives us the opportunity to combine our expertise, invest in new ideas, and explore exciting product innovations. Together, we’ll enhance the quality and variety of what we offer, ensuring Whitakers Chocolates continues to grow and delight chocolate lovers everywhere. While we look to the future, we remain committed to preserving the heritage and traditions that define us, celebrating everything that makes Whitakers special and building on our legacy for generations to come.”

 

Related content