United Wholesale Scotland (UWS) is to expand into England for the first time with the purchase of Time Wholesale Services (TWS).

The deal will see the cash and carry operator gain a fourth depot in Rainham, Essex, adding to its existing sites across Glasgow and Falkirk. UWS will begin operating the depot from 1 July. Both companies are part of the Unitas Wholesale buying group.

Although TWS doesn’t operate its own symbol group, UWS has more than 500 stores under the Day Today and USave banners and will use the purchase to expand the fascias across London.

UWS managing director Chris Gallacher told Better Retailing the purchase is part of plans to achieve more than £500m in revenue, with “exciting plans” in the pipeline for the depot.

He added: “UWS and TWS are independent family wholesalers that share the same core beliefs regarding customers, suppliers, and colleagues. We both pride ourselves on leading the way in innovation and technology, which makes this acquisition a perfect fit.

“At a time of consolidation and change in the sector, we have recognised the need to invest both in our business and the wholesale sector. We are firmly focused on identifying opportunities for growth and this deal signifies a clear step forward in our plans for expansion. We have some incredibly exciting plans for the London depot which we will share at the right time, and we look forward to taking over in July.”

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TWS managing director Sony Bihal will remain to lead the London depot. He added: “It’s a real opportunity to strengthen our current market and diversify into new markets, not only in retail but catering as well.  The opportunity to showcase the UWS award-winning Day Today and Usave symbol groups on the streets of London, alongside their GDK franchise business, is extremely exciting.

“Our customers, suppliers, and colleagues in London will continue to receive elevated levels of support that they have always received from Time Wholesale Services.  It is business as usual for now, but in the coming weeks, the trading team will be reaching out to discuss the opportunities that this acquisition will bring for both our suppliers and customers.”

Unitas managing director John Kinney added: “Independent wholesalers are not standing still in a challenging market — they are actively seeking our growth opportunities. This move by UWS is a clear example of this ambition in action, and there is more to come. Despite economic pressures and unhelpful interventions from the Government, our wholesalers continue to invest in supporting independent retailers, the foodservice sector, and on-trade customers.

“With its award-winning depots in Scotland, UWS is renowned for delivering outstanding customer service. Their ever-expanding delivery capabilities, innovative use of technology to highlight supplier investment, and strong retailer support make them a valuable asset to any region. Retailers south of the border can expect a first-class experience.”

The expansion will also see it face competition from existing wholesaler Wanis on the same industrial estate. Fellow Unitas member Parfetts will also serve the south of England once it opens its Southampton depot later this year.

It is the latest in a major growth strategy for UWS. Last year the company began updating its Day Today fascia with more premium branding alongside the launch of its own UK-wide vaping distributor.

It also appointed former Costcutter regional director Mike Leonard into the newly created role of symbol director this year.

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