Founded in 1926, Demos Ciclitira specialises in the sourcing and supply of dried ingredients, operating alongside dried fruit and ingredients packer George Harker and Co.
Meanwhile, Gerald McDonald is a leading supplier of juices, purees, essential oils, herbs, spices, and other ingredients to the food and drink industry.
This acquisition brings together two long-standing businesses, with the firm’s combined sourcing network spanning six continents. Clients include leading manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and independent food producers.
Demos Ciclitira operates from their purpose-built facility in Braintree, Essex, which is accredited to BRCGS ‘AA’ standard and upholds rigorous product testing and safety protocols, while Gerald McDonald has a site in Basildon.
Maxim McDonald, managing director of Gerald McDonald, said he was delighted to complete the deal.
“Both businesses share a proud heritage, a passion for food, and a dedication to customer service,” he added.
“This acquisition enables us to expand our complete offering – from liquid concentrates to dried fruits, grains and pulses - while upholding the highest standards in quality, accreditation, and food safety testing. It also allows us to bring more locally managed supply capabilities to our manufacturing and retail partners across the UK.”
Elsewhere, Demos Ciclitira managing director Rebecca King described the move as the start of an exciting new chapter for the business.
“We share aligned values - long-term relationships with growers, focus on quality, and strong regional presence - and together, we look forward to continuing to serve our customers with an even broader and more resilient range,” King said.
David Ciclitira, chair of Demos Ciclitira, further commented: “I am delighted to hand over the running of Demos Ciclitira to another highly respected family run business. Ironically our two families ran their businesses at the turn of the last century in the same street of the City of London. I look forward to watching subsequent generations build upon the legacy set out by my grandfather, father, uncle and brother.”
