R D Johns Acquires Cooper Foods
Fivefold Associates in partnership with Symmetry Corporate Finance has advised the shareholders of Cooper Foods in their sale to R D Johns. This strategic move expands R D Johns footprint across the Home Counties and into outer London.
Established over 50 years ago, R D Johns has cemented its position as one of the South West’s leading foodservice providers. The acquisition of Cooper Foods gives the company enhanced strengths in fresh butchery, seafood, and broad foodservice offerings.
“We are pleased to have identified R D Johns as part of our comprehensive research and marketing exercise for Cooper Foods,” said Steve Anstey, Managing Director at Fivefold Associates. “The acquisition is a perfect fit operationally and culturally, and we’re delighted to have played a role in bringing two like‑minded family businesses together,” said Jonathan Tate, Managing Director at Symmetry.
Key Benefits of the Acquisition:
- Expanded geographic reach: R D Johns now serves new markets in Hampshire, the Home Counties, and outer London.
- Complementary capabilities: Cooper Foods’ expertise in fresh butchery and fish enriches R D Johns’ fresh product portfolio.
- Joint vision for service and quality: Shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer focus drives the collaboration.
What This Means for Customers and Stakeholders
R D Johns expects to balance its Southwest roots with increased market access in the densely populated Home Counties and London fringe. The merged operations will feature an expanded product range, improved logistics, and enhanced support for both existing and new customers.
About Fivefold Associates
Fivefold Associates specialises in advising SME and lower mid-market businesses on business improvement, readiness for sale and selling when the time is right. This is the second sale completion in the food sector this year for Fivefold Associates, having advised Whitakers Chocolates on its sale to Bramble Foods in January.
About R D Johns
Founded in 1970, R D Johns has grown from a local butcher to a £66 million + turnover foodservice wholesaler with depots across Devon and Somerset. The firm supplies over 5,500 products—including fresh meat, chilled, and frozen foods—to hospitality, retail, education, and care sectors. The company is known for its fantastic service offering and its attention to detail.
About Cooper Foods
Founded in 1986, Cooper Foods began as a seafood specialist in Andover, expanding into fresh and frozen foodservice products, including butchery, fish, desserts, and ambient goods. The company is known for quality and personalised customer care.
