Premier Foods has announced the acquisition of healthy ready-to-go meal brand Merchant Gourmet for £48m.

The move comes as part of Premier Foods’ strategy to expand its portfolio with brands that can deliver further growth.

The business acquired Fuel10K and The Spice Tailor in recent years to build on its growth model.

Alex Whitehouse, chief executive of Premier Foods said: “We’re very pleased to have agreed to the acquisition of Merchant Gourmet, which meets the growing demand for premium, healthy and convenient meal options.

“Replicating the success of our previous two acquisitions, The Spice Tailor and FUEL10K, we will be deploying our proven branded growth model, expanding retailer distribution, accelerating new product development, and increasing marketing investment to unlock further profitable growth for the brand.

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“Merchant Gourmet expands our category presence, complementing our already strong brand portfolio, and we look forward to welcoming the team to Premier Foods.”

Merchant Gourmet expects to achieve a projected revenue of £28m for the year to 28th March 2026 according to the company. 

Richard Peake, managing director of Merchant Gourmet, added: “Merchant Gourmet has always been about creating great-tasting, premium, healthy food that anyone can enjoy. Over the last few years, our team have worked incredibly hard, delivering double-digit revenue growth and demonstrating huge success in entering new categories and new markets.

“Finding the best home for both Merchant Gourmet and our valued team is something we have thought carefully about, and we believe Premier Foods is the right partner to match our ambition.”

The acquisition is expected to be completed on 1 September.