Bradford based wholesale business expands with seven-figure HSBC support

A Bradford based food wholesale business is set to open a new site in Birmingham with support from HSBC UK.

Family-run ICS UK has used a seven-figure funding package from HSBC UK to purchase a 50,000 sq. ft retail unit on Austin Way, Hampstead, where it will open its seventh site, operating as Cater Choice Foodservice.

The new distribution site, which will also accommodate a trade counter to supply food and packaging products to a wide range of independent fast-food retailers and commercial kitchens, will open on June 5 and in a “boom” to the local economy, it is expected to create 100 new jobs over the coming months.

Following the purchase of this latest site, ICS UK is anticipating a further increase to its current £120m annual turnover. The Birmingham site will also help in expanding the company’s geographical footprint as it moves towards comprehensive nationwide coverage.

Ismail Bhamji, managing director at ICS UK, commented: “Our years of supplying the catering industry have given us a deep understanding of the logistical and financial pressures that commercial kitchens are up against. It’s been exciting to open our latest store, as this expansion will help us support more customers across the UK.

“We’re looking forward to being able to increase the range and availability of our products to our existing customers, as well as offering our trusted service to new businesses in Birmingham and further afield. We have been using the services of HSBC UK since 1975 and are very happy with the support provided with this new site.”

Angus Woodcock, relationship director at HSBC UK, added: “ICS UK has an impressive portfolio of Cater Choice sites which have supported the success of many independent food outlets across the UK. We’re pleased to provide funding for this next step for the business as it progresses its growth trajectory within the food and drink industry.”

By Matthew Neville – Senior Correspondent, Bdaily

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