A family-run wholesale business with over 65 years of history in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire has been acquired by a national competitor. DB Ramsden and Co, trading as Dee Bee Wholesale, serves more than 1,400 retail and on-trade customers from its depots in Grimsby and Hull.
Company Background
Established in 1961 as part of the Ramsden Group, Dee Bee Wholesale initially focused on non-food products before evolving into a prominent supplier of groceries and drinks. The company employs 87 staff across its two sites and reported a turnover of £59.4 million in its most recent accounts.
Acquisition Details
Bestway Wholesale, the UK's largest independent food and drink wholesaler, has purchased Dee Bee Wholesale for an undisclosed sum. Bestway, founded in 1976, operates 57 depots nationwide and owns brands such as Costcutter, best-one, BB foodservice, and Bestway Wholesale. It is part of the Bestway Group, which also has interests in banking, cement, pharmacy, milling, and property investment.
Statements from Leadership
Managing director Nick Ramsden said: "This marks an important milestone in the history of Dee Bee Wholesale and an exciting new chapter for the business. For more than 65 years, Dee Bee Wholesale has been committed to supporting customers across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, building strong relationships and helping independent retailers, convenience stores and on-trade operators succeed."
He added: "Importantly, it is very much business as usual. Our depot operations, customer contacts and service teams remain in place and customers should continue trading with us in exactly the same way as they do today. We believe becoming part of Bestway Wholesale creates significant opportunities for the future. Over time, customers will benefit from Bestway's scale, competitive pricing, market-leading promotions and extensive product range."
Dawood Pervez, managing director of Bestway Wholesale, said: "We are delighted to welcome Dee Bee Wholesale – a long-established family business with more than 65 years of customer service heritage, loyal customer base and detailed regional knowledge across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire – into the Bestway Wholesale network."
Future Plans
Bestway Wholesale confirmed that the acquisition is part of its ongoing strategic expansion plans, further bolstering its regional presence. Nick Ramsden will remain with the business to support continuity for customers, colleagues, and suppliers, ensuring a smooth integration.
