Farmison & Co acquired by consortium led by former Asda CEO

Farmison and Co, a sustainable online meat retailer, has been acquired by a consortium led by former Asda CEO Andy Clarke, alongside Chilli Marketing’s Gareth Whittle, Christian Barton and Kieron Barton for an undisclosed sum. In the coming weeks, the consortium will aim to recommence operations at Farmison’s production facility in Ripon, North Yorkshire and re-open its website. It will update customers and suppliers with its plans “in due course”. The consortium will now work with the whole leadership team to “firstly stabilise the company after a difficult year and then devise and implement a growth strategy”. Clarke, who was chief executive officer of Asda from 2010 to 2016, will become executive chairman of Farmison. He said: “We have an opportunity to scale this business and further develop both its direct-to-consumer and wholesale plans, building on the ethos and values of what Farmison stands for. “Nevertheless, there is much work to do to get the business back on its feet and trading again – not least re-engaging with Farmison’s important network of farmers across the region and re-employing colleagues.” He added: “In the short-term, our goal is to bring financial stability to the business, and we’re committed to re-energising Farmison’s long-term vision so it can take advantage of the growth opportunities that are undoubtedly available to it.” Arvindar Jit Singh, joint administrator and partner at FRP Advisory, said: “We are thrilled to have been able to secure a buyer for Farmison who is able to recommence trading and bring jobs back to Ripon. “There had been significant interest in purchasing the business and assets of Farmison and a number of serious offers had been put forward in recent weeks, but the proposal from the Consortium provides the best opportunity of both re-establishing the business and maximising returns to creditors.” Farmison and Co sells online directly to customers across the UK, and through wholesale channels such as Harrods, Selfridges, Fortnum and Mason and Michelin star restaurants.