Julius Meinl expands UK operations with Aroma & Gusto acquisition

Julius Meinl has expanded its presence in the UK by acquiring Aroma & Gusto, a coffee distributor in the Midlands.

Aroma & Gusto has a pre-existing customer base in cities such as Nottingham and Sheffield.

Julius Meinl International Business managing director Jérôme Pastre said: “We’ve long considered it a logical step to expand northwards into the Midlands and this deal has provided us with the means to do so.

“By acquiring Aroma & Gusto, we’ve developed new contacts in the form of their strong HoReCa customer base.

“Now we can provide customers in the Midlands and beyond with a greater portfolio of offerings, from coffee and tea to full trade packages, including new product innovations, coffee machines and equipment and point-of-sale materials.”

Julius Meinl initially entered the UK market in 2014. It currently focuses on the London area, selling tea products to more than 200 restaurants and cafés.

Julius Meinl coffee is currently served in locations such as the Mondrian, Hyatt hotels and Balans Soho Society.

Following the acquisition, Julius Meinl expects to double its turnover in the UK. The Viennese coffee roaster is also planning to expand into Scotland and South West England in the future.

The company is interested in identifying partners to facilitate its continued development.