illy reacquires UK distribution from Euro Food Brands

Illycaffè has announced its acquisition of Euro Food Brands' illy division, dedicated to the distribution of illy products in the United Kingdom. Despite Brexit uncertainties, illycaffè says the move signals its intention to keep investing in the UK. “We evaluated this move carefully and decided it was now time to further develop this strategic market by strengthening our focus and efforts there,” says Massimiliano Pogliani, CEO of illycaffè. “By internalising the distribution, we will be able to directly steer the development of the illy brand and grow the relationships we have with our UK customers. We will keep investing in the UK market in order to really boost our presence there.” Euro Food Brands was illycaffè’s UK distributor for more than 25 years and will continue to grant operational support to the subsidiary for retail and ecommerce customers. The acquired division comprises the business, assets, and staff of about 70 employees of Euro Food Brands, which relate solely to the distribution of illy products in the UK. Operations will continue to be based in Brackmills, Northampton. Illycaffè’s intention is to hire more employees needed to manage and develop the new company. Follow Global Coffee Report on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter for up-to-date news and analysis of the global coffee industry.