Irish firm builds UK holding

Irish contract caterer Campbell Bewley has strengthened its foothold in Britain with the acquisition of two contract catering firms.

The group has paid more than £3m for Caterwise in Barry, south Wales, and Effective Partnerships in Newbury, Berkshire. The deal gives the group 80 new contracts and ensures that about one-third of its £61m turnover will come from Britain.

The move reinforces the group's firm commitment to further expansion outside Ireland. Last August, it paid £5m for US contract catering firm and café chain Rebecca's.

Managing director Michael Cummins said that further growth, organically and through acquisitions, can be expected this year. "We dominate the Irish market and, for future expansion, we feel that the next natural step is in Great Britain and the USA," he said.

All 500 staff from the two new acquisitions, including management, will be retained.