Kitwave acquires Scottish wholesaler rival

Kitwave Wholesale Group has acquired food wholesaler counterpart Fife Creamery for an undisclosed sum.

There will be no changes to Kirkcaldy-based Fife Creamery’s depot, operations, sales or head office teams, and the existing leadership structure remains in place with Steve Appolinari remaining as managing director.

Previous owners the Simpson family will exit the business, which John Simpson senior founded in 1957.

The move is aimed at supporting the company’s long-term growth ambitions while retaining the values, people and service that have underpinned its success for 70 years.

The business will continue to trade under the Fife Creamery brand, and customers and suppliers will continue working with the same teams and contacts, with no change in day-to-day operations.

As part of the acquisition, Fife Creamery will also become a member of the Country Range Group.

Graeme Simpson, chairman of Fife Creamery, said: “Our objectives have always been to protect the established Fife Creamery name, remain a vital partner for Scottish retail and hospitality, secure the right investment for our Kirkcaldy infrastructure, and ensure sustainable long-term growth. I am extremely pleased to say that all these goals have been achieved.

“This partnership gives us the investment, scale and support to build on that success while remaining true to the values that have made Fife Creamery what it is today. Most importantly, it ensures Fife Creamery can continue to invest in its people, its customers and the communities it has proudly served for generations.”

Ben Maxted, CEO at Kitwave Wholesale Group, added: “Fife Creamery has established itself as one of Scotland’s most respected food wholesalers, with a strong market position, an experienced leadership team and a customer-focused approach that aligns closely with our own values.

“This acquisition strengthens our presence in Scotland and represents an important step in our long-term growth strategy. We look forward to working closely with the team in Kirkcaldy and investing in the business as it continues to build on its success.”

This buyout is the third in just over two years for Kitwave, following the acquisitions of Creed Foodservice and Total Foodservice Solutions in 2024.

The wholesaler’s foodservice division also includes HB Clark, David Miller Frozen Foods, MJ Baker Foodservice and Westcountry Food Holdings.

In March 2026 Kitwave itself was acquired for £246m by Kite UK Bidco, a private investment vehicle indirectly owned by OEP Capital Advisors.