Wholesaler AF Blakemore agreed to acquire SPAR UK retail and logistics assets in the South West of England from Appleby Westward Group Limited (AWG), marking a significant expansion for the 100-year-old family business.
This move will strengthens AF Blakemore's presence across the South of England.
The agreement will see AF Blakemore acquire 71 company operated stores, as well as supplying over 130 independent SPAR partner stores, and the distribution and logistics operations at Saltash in Plymouth.
Following completion, AF Blakemore will support more than 1,000 SPAR stores, further reinforcing its position as the largest SPAR operator in the UK.
The expansion into the Southwest will increase AF Blakemore’s scale and reach, enabling the business to secure stronger value for customers and retailers while continuing to invest in its supply chain and stores.
AF Blakemore stated on social media, "It (the acquisition) represents a strategic investment in the SPAR network – increasing our scale, enhancing our supply chain capability, and enabling us to deliver even greater value for our retailers, customers and communities.
"We look forward to working closely with our new retail partners and building on the strong foundations already in place across the South West."
Peter Blakemore, Chairman of AF Blakemore & Son Ltd, said: “As a family business with more than a century of history, we have always believed in long-term investment in the SPAR brand and the independent retailers we serve.
This expansion into the Southwest reflects that commitment. It strengthens the SPAR network, supports our retail partners, and creates new opportunities for colleagues and communities across the region.
I want to take this opportunity to thank the A F Blakemore team instrumental in enabling this acquisition and extend a warm welcome to our new wider colleagues, retailers and communities.”
Mike Boardman, Managing Director of AWG, said: “With our owners having decided to seek a new owner for AWG and the SPAR brand in the Southwest of England, we are very pleased with this positive transaction which will strengthen the SPAR brand in the South of England and allows the majority of our stores and colleagues, as well as all retail customer relationships, to transition to AF Blakemore and become part of a highly regarded family business, focused on excellence and inclusivity.
"We know our retailers and colleagues will continue to thrive under their ownership and this deal creates many new opportunities for the future.”