Vegetable supplier has been run by the Burgess family since 1898
Vegetable grower Burgess Farms has been sold in a management buyout that sees the three Burgess brothers exiting the business.
The 127-year-old company, which supplies all major UK supermarkets, has been under the stewardship of the Burgess family since 1898. However it is now moving into a new phase under the existing senior management team, with support from private investment firm Chiltern Capital.
The management team, led by chief executive James Barker, will continue to run the company across its sites, including Isleham in Cambridgeshire, Sutton Bridge in Lincolnshire, Houghton Estate in Norfolk, and Dalcross near Inverness.
FPJ understands there are currently no plans to rename the business. The new ownership also confirmed that there are no planned personnel or operational changes.
Following the transaction, the team will be supported by the introduction of industry veteran Clive Sharpe as non-executive director.
Chiltern Capital’s investment is expected to support the business as it looks to grow its market position, develop its sustainability credentials, and further invest in its supply chain and processing capabilities.
“This is a proud and important moment in the history of Burgess Farms,” said Barker. “We are grateful to the Burgess family for their stewardship and legacy, and excited about the next phase as we move away from a family-owned business model.
“With the backing of Chiltern Capital, we will continue to build on our strength supplying top-quality produce to the UK market and supporting long-term customer partnerships.”
Speaking on behalf of the Burgess family, outgoing MD William Burgess – who owned the business alongside brothers Jason and Andrew – said: “After decades of dedication to the family business, we feel the time is right to pass the baton. We are incredibly proud of what we’ve built and deeply grateful to our loyal staff, customers, and suppliers. With the current, highly experienced management team, we know that the business will continue to flourish and innovate, whilst staying true to its values.
“We selected Chiltern Capital as the right backers to take the business forward, as they have a strong knowledge of, and passion for, UK sustainable agriculture and the financial firepower to invest in the business to take it to the next level.”
For Chiltern Capital, partner David Butler said: “Burgess Farms is a rare example of a company with deep heritage, technical expertise, and a commitment to sustainable agriculture. We are delighted to support James and the management team in their ambitions to grow the business while upholding its core values.”
