Ice Cream Wholesaler Scooped Up by International Buyer

Gortrush Trading is a highly regarded ice cream wholesaler, serving a number of clients within the ice cream industry in Ireland and England. The company has experienced considerable growth since its foundation, with the strength of its workforce, products and service offering enabling it to build up an excellent reputation within its sector and maintain a high-value, long-standing client base.

Kieran Howe, the sole shareholder of Gortrush, instructed KBS Corporate with the sale of his business in order facilitate further growth under the impetus of new ownership. This allowed KBS Corporate to implement a research strategy with a primary focus on the UK and overseas trade buyers, which generated high levels of interest.

The successful offer came from NIC Enterprises Limited which is owned by Orkla Plc. Based in Norway, Orkla Plc is a supplier of branded consumer goods to the grocery, specialised retail, pharmacy and bakery sectors. The acquisition will strengthen the company’s foothold in the UK market, as well as adding to the overall product range.

“We already hold a strong position in ice cream ingredients and accessories in the UK market,” said Tor Osmundsen, CEO of NIC Group. “The acquisition of Gortrush is strategically right for increasing our foothold in Northern Ireland and gaining better access to the Irish market. Gortrush’s product assortment is a good match to that of NIC UK, and the businesses complement each other well.”

Annie Shiel, KBS Corporate Associate Corporate Director, advised Gortrush and commented on the deal,“With the continued motivation from all parties and advisers involved, the deal was quickly back on track after a few COVID-19 hiccups, and a successful outcome was achieved. KBS were well positioned to advise on complex deal mechanisms to accommodate the moving parts to the transaction, advise on financial aspects and manage the process throughout. It has been a pleasure getting to know and work with the buyers and sellers involved in this transaction. We wish both sides all the best for the future.”