GLASGOW-based wholesaler JW Filshill has acquired independent wholesale business Iain Hill Ltd for an undisclosed sum.
JW Filshill has acquired the Renfrewshire firm ahead of its move to new purpose-built premises in the autumn. Iain Hill Ltd has served Scottish retailers for 32 years, first launching in managing director Iain Hill’s parents’ garage.
The firm currently operates as an independent delivered wholesaler supplying soft drinks, crisps and confectionery from its 50,000 square foot warehouse.
According to JW Filshill, the acquisition will see Iain Hill customers benefit from a more extensive range including fresh, chilled, alcohol and grocery.
The acquisition comes at a time of major change for JW Filshill. The firm is preparing to relocate from its current Hillington Park site to a new 123,034 square foot distribution centre at Westway Park near Glasgow Airport.
Filshill’s acquisition is also expected to create additional roles at the wholesaler, which is now actively recruiting additional drivers and warehouse operatives.
Simon Hannah, chief executive at JW Filshill, said: “Iain Hill Ltd is a perfect fit for Filshill given the many synergies between the two businesses – both independent family-owned companies with the same values and people-focused culture, and a similar geography given their proximity to each other in Renfrewshire. Both Filshill and Iain Hill use the same IT and app suppliers which will make the transition easier.
“I have known Iain Hill and his wife, Aileen, for many years and they are excellent operators with a strong and loyal customer base and an exceptional team of employees who we are looking forward to welcoming to the Filshill family and who will benefit from career progression opportunities in the future.”
Iain Hill commented on the sale: “There’s a great synergy between the two businesses and the most important thing for me is that my staff will be moving to a like-minded independent, family-owned business that takes a people first approach.
“After 32 years in the industry, is the right time for me to exit the business and give my staff, most of whom have been with me many years, the opportunity to work in a purpose-built, state-of-the-art distribution hub that will be just three miles from Linwood.
“For my customers, the number of food and drink lines available to them increases from 1,200 to 6,500 overnight so it a great opportunity for them to reassess their businesses and plan for growth.”
