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FoodBev Media
29 March 2023
Endless buys poultry processor Smithfield Murray
UK private equity firm Endless has announced its acquisition of poultry processor Smithfield Murray. Founded in 1987, Smithfield is a provider of prepared raw poultry products to manufacturers that in turn supply the retail and foodservice channels. The deal will bring Smithfield together with Endless's other meat processor, Yorkshire Premier Meat (YPM), to create a "major UK force" in business-to-business protein supply. According to the Leeds-based private equity firm, Smithfield's existing management team and founding shareholders Damien Murray and Martin Grady will continue to lead the business. Di Walker, group chair of the YPM board, said: “Despite the challenges being faced in the poultry supply chain at this time, the business has proved itself to offer exceptional levels of service quality, and this investment alongside YPM is transformational for both businesses, with fantastic potential for growth and further follow-on investment”. Smithfield's CEO, Damien Murray, added: “It is fantastic to be joining forces with Endless and the YPM team. Everyone at Smithfield Murray has worked incredibly hard to create the quality of business we have today, and we’re excited about the job creation opportunities this investment will bring in the future. This also opens up exciting opportunities for growth, working closely with our loyal customers and suppliers.” Terms of the deal were not disclosed.