The move unites two leading UK egg processing companies to form a fully integrated player within the egg products market.
Hardeman is a group of egg-processing companies with branches in the Netherlands and Germany, while Bumble Hole Foods produces a broad range of egg products from its facility in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, including liquid whole egg, boiled eggs, egg mayonnaise, scrambled egg and separated whites and yolks.
The outgoing owner of Bumble Hole Foods, Andrew Hewston, described the decision to sell the business as a “difficult” one.
Hewston and Sharon Jones will step down from their roles moving forward, but otherwise operations will continue as normal with Simon Bennett remaining as managing director to ensure leadership continuity.
“After much reflection, we’ve made the difficult decision to sell Bumble Hole Foods,” Hewston said.
“This business has been an integral part of our family’s life for many years, and what started as a vision has grown into a reality thanks to the dedication of our team and the loyalty of our customers and suppliers.
“As the industry shifts – particularly with the move towards cage-free production, where Hardeman leads – we’re confident this is the right step to secure a sustainable and successful future for the business.”
Hewston concluded by saying that he was confident that the Hardeman Egg Group would continue to “honour and grow the legacy” built since 1961.
Ton Gielen, CEO of The Hardeman Egg Group, added: “By combining our expertise, resources, and commitment to excellence, we are better positioned to deliver value, drive innovation, and serve our customers more effectively.
“Each business brings unique strengths, and together we are more agile, resilient, and ready to lead in a rapidly evolving market. With increasing pressure on the UK egg industry to transition to cage-free systems and strengthen domestic food resilience, this acquisition comes at a pivotal time for ensuring long-term supply chain security and sustainability.”
