The Wholesale Group, the UK’s newest buying group, has made significant strides since its launch on January 1 this year, securing 11 new wholesale members and increasing its annual group turnover to £4.52 billion.
With its rapid expansion and distinctive value-led approach, The Wholesale Group is positioning itself as a formidable force in the UK wholesale sector.
The new members, spanning both retail and foodservice, bring The Wholesale Group’s total network to 257 wholesale depots—accounting for over 13.7 per cent of the UK wholesale market.
Recent additions include Café Deli in Croydon, McCartney Foodservice in Boston, Consort Frozen Foods in Burgess Hill, and Ewood Foods in Accrington.
The new members will participate in The Wholesale Group’s inaugural trade show in Cheltenham on 20 March 2025, marking another milestone for the fast-growing buying group.
Tom Gittins, joint managing director, states, “From the outset, we recognised the need for a buying group that prioritises service and is tailored specifically for independent wholesalers.
"The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with 11 new members joining within our first few weeks, demonstrating the market’s appetite for a group that delivers real commercial advantages.”
Stephen Sutcliffe, owner of Ewood Foods, highlighted the strategic advantages of joining The Wholesale Group.
Describing the partnership as a perfect fit for the company's growth ambitions, Sutcliffe credited the new buying group for providing access to an extensive supplier network, a strong own-brand portfolio, and advanced digital marketing support.
He also emphasised that the group’s unique profit-sharing model and absence of membership fees made the decision to join an easy and logical one for securing long-term success.
"The huge benefits offered by the group, including a share of the profits and no membership fees, meant that it was an easy decision to make for our future success," Sutcliffe added.
Gittins reinforced the group’s growing appeal among independent wholesalers, stating that family-run businesses are thriving and that The Wholesale Group is offering them a dedicated platform for sustainable growth.
“We remain the only buying group with no membership fees and a share of the profit for every member, a unique selling point which has proved to be compelling in the current market," he added.
