Burton’s Biscuit acquires Scottish food company Paterson Arran

UK-based Burton’s Biscuit has expanded its product offering with the acquisition of Scottish food company Paterson Arran.

Financial details of the deal have not been divulged.

The deal will see the addition of Paterson’s shortbread brand to Burton’s portfolio, as well as the inclusion of foodservice biscuit and chutney brands, Brontë, Café Brontë and Arran Fine Foods.

Burton’s Biscuit CEO Nick Field said: “Paterson Arran is a superb business with a first-rate product portfolio and baking expertise which combines time-honoured methods with the very latest technology, to make outstanding products.

“The acquisition is a further indication of our intent to increase our production capability, to extend our product offering and to continue growing our presence in the biscuit market.

“The move not only strengthens our branded proposition, Paterson Arran’s strength in foodservice and portion packing also unlocks significant new trading opportunities for our existing product portfolio.”

Paterson Arran operates two manufacturing facilities, the Royal Burgh Bakery in Livingston, West Lothian, and the Old Mill, Lamlash, Isle of Arran.

The Livingston facility is engaged in the production of a wide range of shortbread, oatcakes, biscuits and cookies, while the Old Mill produces chutneys, mustards and preserves.

Retiring Paterson Arran chairman Alan Hardie said: “I am honoured to have been at the helm of this great company for the last 25 years and am equally as excited about what the future holds.

“Paterson Arran and Burton’s have shared values of a commitment to baking excellence and to producing top quality, great-tasting products.”

In February, Burton’s completed the acquisition of Dorset-based Thomas Fudge’s from mid-market private equity investment firm Livingbridge.