As the catering market continues to be increasingly competitive, merging the resources and expertise of these two progressive companies will extend the reach of both in the business and industry, leisure, heritage, events, and education sectors, allowing them to continue to vigorously compete and grow.

CH&Co Group’s CEO, Bill Toner says:

“The deal is the right fit for both companies. Harbour & Jones and CH&Co Group are both dynamic businesses enjoying sustained growth. By combining our assets, knowledge, skills and expertise we will increase our strength to compete across the board, which is a very exciting prospect.”

Following the original merger in 2015 (Host Catermasters with CH&Co) and the Brookwood transaction in 2016, this is the third significant merger for CH&Co Group in as many years and since MML’s involvement as the Group’s investment partner.

Richard Mayers, Partner at MML commented,

“It was clear from the outset that the CH&Co Group would be a great fit for Harbour & Jones. By putting these two quality businesses together we have enhanced the Group’s competitive position and created an even stronger base from which it can continue its rapid growth.”

The merger increases the Group’s turnover to £265m and it will now provide catering at over 700 sites across the UK and Ireland, employing more than 6,000 people.