After adding five new members to the Country Range Group in 2024, CRG has started 2025 on a similarly positive note with the announcement of Valley Foods as its newest foodservice wholesale member.
With the addition of Valley Foods, the Group now comprises 15 member businesses and 17 wholesalers, collectively serving the entire UK, Ireland, coastal Spain, and Jersey.
Established in Trinity, Jersey, in 1981, Valley Foods was founded by Matt Rogan, who initially traveled to the UK mainland to source specialist products for chefs and the broader hospitality industry. Renowned for its exceptional customer service and innovative solutions, the business transitioned to new ownership in 2007 when entrepreneurs Andrew and Helen Clackett took over and relocated it to its current premises at La Solitude Farm in St Martin.
Under the leadership of Andrew and Helen Clackett, Valley Foods flourished, expanding through the acquisitions of Trinity Fine Foods, Ashley Meats, and a local specialist Polish importer. The business also made significant investments in a state-of-the-art butchery, which has since become one of the largest butchery facilities on the island.
In recent years, this progressive business has expanded its storage and freezer capacity, introduced a convenient shopping app for customers, and partnered with Jersey Hand Dived to offer a selection of local scallops. Key appointments have further strengthened the team, including Martin Mitchell, who oversees the rollout of their fresh produce line, and Alex Badarau, who became Sales Director in 2023.
Boasting an annual turnover of £14 million and a portfolio of over 5,500 products, this local success story employs 50 people and operates 17 delivery vans, serving dedicated chefs and cooks in the public catering and hospitality sectors.
Locally owned and operated, Valley Foods is dedicated to collaborating with, supporting, and promoting local producers and suppliers, fostering the continued growth and resilience of the Island community.
Valley Foods will instantly gain from the Country Range Group’s robust buying power, exceptional three-tiered own-brand portfolio, impactful promotions, valuable data and insights, and extensive marketing campaigns.
Helen Clackett, Director at Valley Foods, said: “2024 was another positive year for our business so we’re incredibly excited to be joining the Country Range Group as we push for even more in 2025. We have no doubt that the Group’s product portfolio, analysis, insights and buying power will make us stronger, improve our offering and ensure continuous improvement.”
Country Range Group Chief Executive Martin Ward said: “We’re delighted to welcome Helen, Andrew and the whole Valley Foods team to the Country Range Group family and we send them our best wishes for 2025. With over 40 years’ experience behind them, Valley Foods has an incredible customer base and an impeccable reputation for providing first class customer service. We’re confident we can help them become an even more formidable force and are excited to see our brands reach new chefs and consumers in Jersey.”
