Dunsters Farm Foodservice has announced the acquisition of Lancashire-based wholesaler Ralph Livesey.
The move strengthens the Caterforce member’s fresh produce offering and supports their growth as the largest, independent, family-run foodservice in the region.
The partnership between Dunsters Farm and Ralph Livesey marks an exciting new chapter for two businesses with rich historic ties to their local communities.
Established in 1920 as a stall on Preston Market, Ralph Livesey has grown significantly into a trusted supplier to education caterers, hospitality venues and independent retailers across the north of England with depots in Preston and Bolton.
The business is recognised for its regional focus and excellence in fresh produce with longstanding supplier relationships and a loyal customer base and team.
Dunsters Farm and Ralph Livesey share aligned values, shaped by more than 160 years of combined heritage in the foodservice sector. Both businesses remain committed to supporting local supply chains, reducing food miles and continuing to grow in the regions they serve.
“Bringing Ralph Livesey into the Dunsters Farm family is a significant step forward for us,” said Hannah Barlow, managing director, Dunsters Farm.
“Their reputation for high-quality fresh produce, customer loyalty and regional knowledge is second to none. What makes this especially exciting is how naturally our businesses fit together.
"Both of us started life in the North-West; Ralph Livesey with a market stall on Preston’s Flag Market and Dunsters with my grandad’s milk round in Bury. We’ve both grown organically by listening to our customers and staying rooted in our communities.
“We’re proud to be fully independent and welcome another like-minded business into our family, one that shares our commitment to quality, sustainability and local sourcing. It’s a reminder that there’s still room for family-operated regional specialists like us to thrive, even in a marketplace increasingly dominated by larger national names.
“As members of the Caterforce buying group we also benefit from the strong collective power of the network, which helps us continue to offer the best price to our customers across the North and Midlands.”
Andrew Christian, managing director, Ralph Livesey, added, “This wasn’t just about finding a buyer – it was about finding the right fit.
"We have spent generations building trusted relationships with our customers and suppliers, and it was important to find a partner who shared that approach. Dunsters Farm really stood out.
"Their values align with ours, their track record in the sector speaks for itself and they genuinely understand what it means to serve the region. With their support, we can continue to grow, evolve and deliver even more to our customers – while staying true to who we are.”
Hannah Barlow agreed, “This is an exciting step forward for both of us.
"Two regional businesses, built on trust and heritage coming together to offer even more to our customers and enhancing our range, especially in fresh produce. In a rapidly consolidating market, this is the right move to stay true to our independent roots and keep feeding the north for another century to come!”
