UK's newest buying group The Wholesale Group recently celebrated a successful first half of the year at its inaugural charity golf day, revealing strong year-to-date performance figures.
Speaking at the event, held at The Rushmore Golf Club on Tuesday (June 10), joint managing director Tom Gittins announced a 2.47 per cent increase in value and a 2.13 per cent rise in volume since the group’s launch in January.
“At our launch, we announced that The Wholesale Group was the buying group the sector needs, and we are delighted to provide an efficient, powerful route to market for suppliers, while celebrating and championing the incredible family businesses that make up our membership.”
Sponsored by industry giants Coca-Cola European Partners, Carlsberg Britvic, and Kellanova, the event brought together wholesalers and suppliers for a day of networking and activities, including a clay pigeon shoot for non-golfers.
The event also provided The Wholesale Group retail board the opportunity to meet at the 12th century King John’s House, situated within the Rushmore Estate.
Suppliers praised the event’s organisation and value.
Gavin Simpson, Carlsberg Britvic said, “This event was a fantastic opportunity to network with key wholesalers, reviewing a fantastic start to the year and planning for the second half of the year.
"The Wholesale Group events are always meticulously planned which makes it easy for us to gain the most value from time away from the desk.”
Members echoed the sentiment, with Ryan Torrible of North West Teas adding, “We had a fantastic time in Dorset this week for The Wholesale Group event.
"The one-to-one business sessions were really well timed so that we can ensure we maximise opportunities for the rest of the year, while I enjoyed my first attempt at clay pigeon shooting, something I hope to do more of in the future."
The event raised £15,000 for The Eloise & Katie Memorial Trust, a charity supporting projects across the UK for disadvantaged young people.
Looking ahead, The Wholesale Group is set to host its Foodservice Fair in Stratford-upon-Avon on September 11, followed by its annual conference in Tenerife from October 9-12, 2025.
