Pre-pack for food firm

CATERING industry supplier Direct Fruit Supplies has been sold in a pre-pack administration.

The deal sees the business bought by director Michael Marcus in a move which will secure the jobs of its 17 staff.

Brendan Guilfoyle and Chris Whyte, from the P&A Partnership, were appointed administrators of the Leeds-based business.

Mr Guilfoyle said: “The company has suffered cashflow problems for some time and P&A were appointed as administrators when it became unable to meet its financial commitments.

“Mr Marcus has now acquired the assets of the business and is continuing to trade and keep on the existing staff.”

Direct Fruit Supplies provides food to restaurants, pubs, hotels and contract catering companies.

Ian Maycock, director of asset consultants Charterfields, said: “We carried out a marketing campaign to find a buyer for the business and attracted interest from a number of parties.

“However it was clear from an analysis of the bids that the offer from Mr Marcus provided the best outcome and returns for the administration and, importantly, has secured the jobs of 17 people.”