JLA acquires the Carford Group

It follows its acquisition of Red Squared, CKM and Proton Washrite as part of its growth strategy for new JLA Catering Division JLA Catering, which launched in October.

The Carford Group deals in commercial kitchen design, supply, installation and maintenance.

"We were attracted to Carford because of the expertise they have, the regard they are held in and the people that have made them such a force in Catering circles," said JLA’s chief executive Stephen Baxter.

"On every level, they match our own ability and ambition, and their know-how and project design capabilities will allow us to offer a wider range of products and services to our customers.

"In growing our business – both organically and by welcoming the talented engineers, technical expertise and sales consultants from new members of the JLA Group – we’re directly responding to customer requirements.

"Over the years, as we’ve helped our customers in their laundries, the managers and staff we work with have constantly asked us to provide the same all-inclusive support in their kitchens too. The critical nature of the equipment used in laundries and kitchens is similar and we are finding that customers welcome the fact we can now offer advice and support in more than one area of their business."