Conviviality snaps up 109 P&H c-stores in £25m deal


UK wholesaler and distributor Conviviality has announced a £25m deal with collapsed grocery supplier Palmer & Harvey (P&H), which will see it take control of 109 of its convenience stores.

Included in the deal, Conviviality has agreed to buy franchise rights for a further 18 stores trading under the Central Convenience brand.

P&H collapsed into administration last month, putting 2,500 jobs at risk in the weeks before Christmas.

Diana Hunter, chief executive Officer at Conviviality, (pictured) said, “We are delighted to have completed the acquisition and to have the Central Convenience business join the Conviviality Group. We now welcome our new colleagues and franchisees to the group.

“Conviviality Retail now comprises 836 stores, serving more customers in the south and south-west of England.”

The company, which operates brands such as Bargain Booze and Wine Rack, posted revenue of £836m in the first half of its financial year, representing growth of 9.2% compared to the same period in 2016.