A.F. Blakemore on Tuesday (June 30) confirmed that it has completed the acquisition of SPAR retail and logistics assets from Appleby Westward Group Limited (AWG) in South West England, significantly expanding its footprint and strengthening its position as the UK's largest SPAR operator.
Announcing the completion of the deal, the family-owned wholesaler said the acquisition marks a major milestone in its 100-year history and will see it support more than 1,000 SPAR stores across the South of England.
The transaction also brings almost 1,200 employees into the A.F. Blakemore business, alongside a large network of SPAR independent retail partners.
In a statement, the company said people would remain at the heart of the next phase of its growth.
"We're looking forward to welcoming almost 1,200 new colleagues and today welcoming many new retail partners into our business. This will see us support more than 1,000 SPAR UK stores in the South of England, consolidating our position as the UK's largest SPAR operator," the company said.
A.F. Blakemore added that it is committed to supporting employees throughout the transition while continuing to build strong relationships with retailers and local communities.
"We are incredibly proud of the culture we've built – one grounded in respect, partnership and a shared commitment to doing the right thing for our people, our retailers and our communities. We look forward to bringing that to life as we welcome our new colleagues into the Blakemore family, supporting them through the transition and building strong, lasting relationships together.
"As a family business, our strength has always come from our people and the communities we serve. That won’t change."