NWF’s executive team is set to stay in place
Major British leafy salad supplier Natures Way Foods has been acquired by US fresh food giant Taylor Farms.
Founded in 1995, California-based, family-run Taylor Farms has grown into a global power in the fresh food sector with revenues of $7.3 billion and over 20,000 staff in several countries.
In recent years, the business has expanded internationally, and it described its acquisition of Natures Way Foods – for an undisclosed sum – as an important extension of its footprint in Europe.
Natures Way Foods is a leading supplier in the UK’s fresh food sector, with revenues of £290mn and 1,300 staff. Founded in 1994 by brothers Robert and David Langmead, Natures Way is a major player in bagged salads, potato salad and coleslaw.
Today, it supplies many of the UK’s major retailers and out-of-home customers such as Tesco, Aldi, Morrisons, McDonald’s, KFC and Pret a Manger. It describes its growth as having been driven by a focus on putting customers at the heart, passionate people, and delivering quality, service and value.
Natures Way’s executive team will remain in place, led by chief executive Colin Smith, with Stewart Gilliland stepping up to chair the board.
Smith said: “This is an exciting time for us all at Natures Way Foods. To be joining forces with the globally respected producer Taylor Farms is testament to our team’s outstanding work. Our commitment to delivering exceptional fresh food products for our valued customers remains at the centre of everything we do.
“We are known for strong relationships, and for quality, service and value. Being part of the Taylor Farms family will enable us to further invest, innovate and share best practice to continue to deliver for our customers”.
Robert and David Langmead added: “It has been a joy to build this business over 31 years, but we realise that the time has come to pass the reins on to ensure Natures Way Foods’ continued success. We couldn’t have done this without our incredible team and extend warm thanks to the many colleagues who have worked alongside us on this journey. The future of Natures Way Foods is safe in their hands”.
Bruce Taylor, chairman and CEO of Taylor Farms, said: “At Taylor Farms, our mission has always been to deliver fresh, healthy, and delicious foods that enhance the wellbeing and quality of our consumers’ lives – and that mission extends beyond North America.
“We’re excited to partner with Natures Way Foods and expand our global footprint, continuing to provide nutritious, high-quality products around the world.”
