Sales rise at Fowler Welch

Fowler Welch increased sales by three per cent last year to £168.6 million but pre-tax profit fell by £100,000 to £4.4m, because, the company said, “additional operational support was provided to a key customer over the Christmas period, while varying retailer demand and shorter production runs, led to cost pressures at our fruit ripening and packing joint venture, Integrated Service Solutions”.

Philip Meeson, chairman of Dart Group, the parent company of Fowler Welch, said that during the year, the business benefited from the first full year of its Dairy Crest operation at Nuneaton, which commenced in June 2016.

“This operation adds to the geographical reach of our significant chilled distribution services and contributed positively in the year.

“Fowler Welch continues to focus on growing its revenue pipeline and developing existing and new business opportunities.”