Cranswick acquires minority stake in UK pork producer The Jolly Hog

UK – UK meat producer Cranswick has acquired a minority stake in premium pork business The Jolly Hog as the two companies begin a long-term manufacturing partnership aimed at supporting the brand’s future expansion.

The companies did not disclose the financial value of the transaction, although a filing with the UK’s Companies House shows that Cranswick now owns more than 25% but less than 50% of The Jolly Hog.

Under the agreement, Cranswick will manufacture products for The Jolly Hog while the Bristol-based business continues to operate independently under its existing management team and from its current headquarters.

Founded in 2007 by brothers Olly, Max and Josh Kohn, The Jolly Hog supplies higher welfare pork products, including sausages and bacon, to retailers across the United Kingdom.

Cranswick said the partnership is expected to provide The Jolly Hog with greater production capacity, improved supply security and access to the company’s technical expertise as it pursues further growth.

Cranswick chief commercial officer Jim Brisby said The Jolly Hog has established a strong reputation for premium products and has built a loyal customer base, making it a good fit for the company’s investment strategy.

The Kohn brothers described the transaction as an important stage in the company’s development, saying the partnership would provide additional investment, manufacturing capability and industry expertise while allowing the business to maintain the product quality and brand values on which it has built its reputation.

Cranswick strengthens gourmet portfolio

Cranswick is one of the United Kingdom’s largest pork suppliers, serving retail and foodservice customers through several business divisions, including fresh meat, gourmet products, and convenience foods.

The company’s convenience products division, which includes sous vide meals and Mediterranean food products such as halloumi, generated 35% of group revenue during the financial year ended 28 March, with total sales reaching US$3.98 billion (£2.98 billion).

Its Gourmet Products division, which includes sausages and bacon, contributed 19.7% of annual revenue and recorded 15.3% sales growth during the year.

Cranswick said the increase in Gourmet Products sales was supported by its acquisition of UK sausage manufacturer Blakemans, adding to the company’s portfolio as it continues to expand its presence in the premium meat products market.

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