Rowan International joins Confex

Wholesale buying group Confex has added yet another member to its ranks, taking the total number of members to 223 across 241 UK depots

The latest wholesale member to join the group is Rowan International which sources and distributes FMCG brands, managing residual stock from the world’s biggest manufacturers in categories such as personal care, household and confectionery. 

With more than 40 years’ experience and as one of the UK’s biggest residual stock distributors, Rowan International’s turnover soared by 24 per cent in 2022-23 to hit £56m. With its UK head offices in Essex and warehouses in four countries, the company covers all major EU territories and provides a trusted and traceable service from beginning to end.

Ben Winter, Commercial Director, Rowan International, said, “Following a market review of buying groups in the UK, Rowan decided that Confex was the best fit for our needs.

“We’re excited about benefitting from enhanced purchasing power and exclusive deals as well as gaining access to a vast network of suppliers. In fact, we’ve already been in contact with several new – and even some lapsed – suppliers to discuss how Rowan can help solve their excess stock problems.

“Confex can also provide Rowan with marketing support and industry insights to further support our business growth plans. We’re really looking forward to working with Confex and its membership.” 

Tom Gittins, Confex CEO welcomed Rowan to the group saying. “It’s been a fantastic year for Confex with eight new members joining the group in 2024 alone. We’re delighted that Rowan International has chosen to join us having carried out research, recognising the many benefits we offer in addition to our unwavering commitment to supporting our members’ growth plans.

“In the past four years, Confex has grown considerably. Our group turnover is now £3.36bn with more than 240 depots across the UK, and with plans to grow further. We’re delighted that our focus on diversifying our membership has really paid off for the group and has set us up for future success.

“Just like us, Rowan International is on an exciting growth journey which we know we can support and enhance, and so we’re perfectly placed to work together to achieve success.”