THE Irish food group building a major new distribution facility at Nutts Corner has announced plans to acquire Dublin business Ready Chef.
Sysco Ireland has entered into an agreement to buy the foodservice company, which employs 100 people at its depot in Glasnevin.
Ready Chef, which is a specialist supplier of fresh and prepared produce solutions, generated €18.9 million (£16.2m) revenue in 2022.
Sysco Ireland, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Sysco Corporation, is currently investing £23m in a bid to double its presence in Northern Ireland.
Key to those plans is the new 250,000 sq ft facility at Nutts Corner, next to Lidl’s northern distribution hub.
Ultimately, Sysco Ireland say it will create around 90 jobs, taking its northern workforce to around 230.
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The group is also continuing to grow via the acquisition route, with the Ready Chef deal its latest growth move.
Founded by William Tallon Senior in the 1960s, Ready Chef has been run by his sons David and William since 1990.
Sysco Ireland’s chief executive, Mark Lee said: “The acquisition allows us to broaden our range and service capability in the fresh and prepared produce category and solidify our position as the industry leader in fresh foodservice on the island.
“Sysco Ireland evolved from a family-owned business, and we are committed to accelerating Ready Chef’s growth while preserving their family business legacy,” he added.
“This transaction will bring together the expertise, resources, and talent of both organisations to deliver even greater value and choice to our customers.”
Mr Lee said that following the completion of deal, Ready Chef will continue to function as an independent division of Sysco Ireland, mirroring the approach taken with its Classic Drinks business.
The acquisition is subject to Competition and Consumer Protection Commission approval.
