FIRST CHOICE FOODSERVICE acquired by KITWAVE GROUP

Kitwave Group acquired First Choice Foodservice, a Staffordshire-based foodservice wholesaler, from the Ainger family in a transaction announced and completed on 2 October 2026. The acquisition added another regional supplier to Kitwave's foodservice division, which includes Creed Foodservice, Total Foodservice, West Country, Fife Creamery and Charles Saunders Foodservice, acquired by Kitwave in July 2026. First Choice Foodservice continued to trade under its existing brand following the acquisition and retained its membership of the Country Range Group. The depot, operational activities, sales function and head office remained unchanged, with no changes to the existing team structure. Steve Ainger continued as managing director, Sophie Ainger remained marketing manager, and Michael Ainger continued to support the business in buying. All three are third-generation members of the founding family, ensuring continuity in the company's management and day-to-day operations. Flint Bishop advised the shareholders of First Choice Foodservice on the transaction, with its corporate team working alongside Steve Ainger.

The acquisition of First Choice Foodservice is part of the growth strategy of Kitwave Group, which already has several external growth operations under its belt, notably Charles Saunders in 2026.