A cross-departmental team of corporate and property advisors at Andrew Jackson Solicitors has advised the shareholders of JR Holland Food Service Ltd on the sale of the business to leading US food technology business GrubMarket Inc.

JR Holland is one of the UK’s premier fresh produce wholesalers, generating approximately £35 million in annual revenues. The transaction marks GrubMarket’s first acquisition in the UK and represents a significant milestone in its international expansion strategy.

Headquartered in Team Valley in the Northeast of England, JR Holland has supplied fresh produce across the region, and beyond, for over 40 years. Founded by John Holland in the early 1980s, the business employs more than 120 people and supplies fresh fruit, vegetables and other food products to restaurants, hospitality venues, foodservice customers, schools, NHS trusts and other public sector organisations.

Following the acquisition, JR Holland will benefit from GrubMarket’s technology platform, including supply chain software and artificial intelligence technology, to support the digitisation of operations, enhance customer experience and improve supply chain efficiency. The business will retain its local brand identity and existing management team, providing continuity for customers, employees and suppliers.

The acquisition forms part of GrubMarket’s broader international expansion strategy. Headquartered in San Francisco, GrubMarket combines proprietary technology with strategically acquired food wholesale and distribution businesses to support the digitisation of the global food supply chain.

Nicole Waldron, an associate in Andrew Jackson’s corporate team, said: – “Advising on the sale of this outstanding business to GrubMarket marks an exciting new chapter for JR Holland. John has built a highly respected business with a strong reputation, loyal customer base, and excellent foundations for future growth.

“The company is exceptionally well positioned to benefit from GrubMarket’s scale, expertise, and strategic vision as it embarks on its next phase of development. We are excited to see what the future holds and have every confidence that the company will continue to thrive under its new ownership.

“We wish John, the management team, and GrubMarket every success as they embark on this next stage of the company’s journey.”

RG Corporate Finance (RGCF) advised John Holland on the transaction, working alongside colleagues from across RG’s wider advisory business and the wider professional advisory team.

John Holland, founder of JR Holland, added: – “Joining GrubMarket marks an exciting new chapter for JR Holland, our employees, and our customers. GrubMarket recognised the strength of the business and our management team from day one, and I am confident that, with their backing, technology and resources, JR Holland is exceptionally well positioned for its next phase of growth.”