Whitworths Food Group, located in Northamptonshire, is poised to acquire KTC Edibles Group, marking a significant exit for private equity firm Endless. The acquisition awaits approval from the Irish competition authorities.

KTC, based in Wednesbury, specializes in producing edible oils and fats, distributing over 370,000 tonnes annually across various food sectors. With sales exceeding £500 million, KTC employs 450 staff across five manufacturing and distribution sites in the UK and Ireland.

Endless purchased KTC in May 2022 and has since invested significantly in the company. Under the leadership of CEO Paresh Mehta, KTC's turnover has increased by over £150 million, and profitability has more than doubled. This growth was facilitated by a new management team, substantial capital investments in manufacturing, and strategic acquisitions, including Cardowan and Trilby.

Whitworths, established in 1886, is a prominent flour milling company owned by the George family since the 1930s, generating over £600 million in revenue. The company operates ten mills across the UK, primarily serving the food manufacturing sector.

Mehta expressed gratitude to Endless for their support, highlighting the successful partnership that has driven KTC's growth. He views the acquisition by Whitworths as a pivotal moment in KTC's evolution, anticipating that their combined expertise will enhance the product offerings for customers.

Michael George, a director at Whitworths, welcomed KTC into their portfolio, praising the progress made under Mehta's leadership. He emphasized the strategic fit of the acquisition and the potential for further growth for all stakeholders involved.

Aidan Robson, managing partner at Endless, reflected on the achievements during their tenure with KTC, noting the company's strong position as a leading supplier of edible oils and fats in the UK. He expressed confidence that Whitworths would be an excellent long-term owner for KTC, creating a robust platform for supplying essential ingredients to the UK food industry.

This acquisition marks Endless' third successful exit from its 2021 Fund V, following the sales of Findel Education and Karnova earlier this year. The transaction involved advisory support from various firms, including Spayne Lindsay, Walker Morris, Park Place, and PWC for Endless and KTC, and EY, DLA Piper, and RSM for Whitworths.