McClures, the proud independent foodservice wholesaler from the English Lake District, has been announced as the latest company to join the Country Range Group.
Becoming the Group’s 15th member and the fifth new addition in 2024, McClures officially joined the Country Range Group on 1st December 2024.
Based in Windermere, in the heart of the English Lake District, McClures is a family-owned business founded by Bill McClure in 1945.
Initially selling Morecambe Bay shrimps from a hand cart in Kendal, the company’s success has been driven by Bill McClure’s passion for providing exceptional customer service, innovation, and a wide range of choices.
Now entering its 80th year of trading, McClures has expanded, adapted, and supported local suppliers, becoming one of the leading suppliers to hospitality venues and public caterers across Cumbria and the North of England.
With an annual turnover of £27 million, McClures is now led by Bill’s son Keith and grandsons Ben and Matthew. The company operates a fleet of forty vehicles, employs 160 team members, offers over 4,000 product lines, and serves thousands of customers, including some of the UK’s most awarded chefs.
McClures will immediately benefit from the Country Range Group’s buying power, its unmatched three-tier own brand portfolio, promotions, data and insights, and comprehensive marketing campaigns.
Keith McClure, Executive Chairman, said: “We’re excited to become part of the Country Range Group and are confident that their expertise, purchasing power, and focus on continuous improvement will enhance our portfolio, service and business as a whole, helping to fuel significant growth in the coming years.”
Country Range Group Chief Executive Martin Ward said: “It’s a huge honour to welcome McClures to the Country Range Group as the family-run foodservice wholesaler celebrates a special and mightily impressive milestone. With 80 years of trading experience behind them, an incredible team and a reputation for putting customers first, we’re certain that our values, ambition and targets align perfectly.”
About the Country Range Group
With over 30 years of heritage in servicing the UK and Ireland’s innovative foodservice sector, the Country Range Group comprises 13 independent wholesalers: Arthur David, Birchall Foodservice, Blakemore Foodservice, Brook Street Foodservice, Caterite Foodservice, Creed Foodservice, Dunns Food and Drinks, Harlech Foodservice, Henderson Foodservice, Savona Foodservice, Trevors Foodservice, Turner Price, and Waterdene Foodservice.
In addition to offering leading brands from around the globe, the Group provides over 700 products exclusively developed for professional caterers under the Country Range brand. Covering grocery, chilled, frozen, and non-food categories, Country Range is widely recognised by caterers as a trusted and reliable brand that delivers consistent quality and value for money without compromising on taste and flavor.
The Group also publishes its trade magazine “Stir it up” 10 times a year, featuring the latest food, drink, and industry news. Additionally, it includes Country Range brand promotions, in-depth trend reports, and sector-specific guides to support and inspire foodservice caterers.