Unitas and Confex have decided to their end their association, with the latter now moving forward as an independent buying group.
Originally formed between Confex and Landmark before the Unitas merger, the partnership rolled over and has continued for more than 18 months. However, Confex is now looking to develop in the areas of foodservice and supplier partnerships.
Confex to launch own-brand range next year
“Confex have enjoyed a long relationship with Unitas but relish the opportunity that their departure from Unitas gives them” said its managing director Tom Gittins. “We recently announced the launch of 275 new foodservice own brand lines under the Core branding which will be ready for January 2021. This will be a focused competitive range that we believe will be a real winner for our members.
“Our future strategy also includes developing joint business plans with all of our leading suppliers rewarding growth and discipline across the group. Therefore the timing of the departure is perfect for Confex and we look forward to a bright future as an independent buying group.”
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Unitas managing director Darren Goldney explained in a statement that “moving forward we believe collaborations must add value to all parties and this one no longer does. We thank Confex for their partnership over the years and wish them success for their future endeavours.”
He also confirmed that Unitas is still open to collaboration within the foodservice sector, despite Confex’s exit: “For clarity, additional collaborations that can accelerate value such as Country Range Group, who has a shared vision for improvement and excellence in foodservice that Unitas Wholesale can complement, are still very much welcome.”
