Central Foods partners with US giant to expand chicken offer

Frozen food specialist Central Foods has partnered with global food company Tyson Foods’ UK division to increase Tyson’s national distribution.

Tyson will offer a selection of products via Central Foods such as Hot ‘N’ Kickin crispy chicken wings, chicken breast kebabs and skewers, coated chicken fillets and crispy inner chicken fillets. Mainly chicken products, the items will complement Central Foods’ own-brand range of Golden Valley Foods poultry options.

Gordon Lauder, MD of Central Foods, said: “Tyson Foods has a reputation for supplying great-tasting, best-quality food for every occasion, as well as very positive environmental and sustainability credentials, and we are delighted to be increasing distribution for their brand in the UK.”

Beginning in Arkansas, Tyson Food has grown to become a major name in the North American food industry.

The multi-national company produces approximately 20% of the beef, pork and chicken in the USA in addition to its large brand portfolio. Through expansion and acquisition, Tyson Foods is now also one of the world’s largest food firms.

Phil Eccleston, commercial director at Tyson Foods Europe, said: “The UK independent frozen foodservice wholesale sector is an important and growing market for Tyson Foods. Our partnership with Central Foods will allow us to further expand our business and geographical coverage in an innovative way.”

Northamptonshire-headquartered Central Foods currently sells to more than 200 independent wholesalers, as well as larger national and regional wholesalers. The company supplies to venues including hotels, restaurants, bars, universities, schools, pubs, care homes, garden centres and leisure outlets.

Pictured: Gordon Lauder, MD Central Foods and Phil Eccleston, commercial director Tyson Foods Europe.