James T Blakeman & Co, one of Europe's leading manufacturers of sausage and meat products, has been acquired by Cranswick plc.
Blakemans was founded in 1953 and now supplies high-quality products to the wholesale, catering and food services sectors - supplying to the likes of M&S, Greggs, Wrights Pies and Jolly Hog.
Owners Susan Cope and Philip Blakeman, the children of founder James T Blakeman, have now sold to Cranswick plc after 30+ years running the business in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
FTSE 250-listed Cranswick is a leading producer and supplier of food products across UK and is at the forefront of investment in regenerative agricultural systems and progressive farming.
Susan and Philip worked with Knights on the sale, drawing on the expertise of a team of experts that have advised Blakemans since 2013.
Philip Blakeman said:
"Selling the family business after more than 70 years brings mixed emotions and we are very grateful to everyone who has played a part in the Blakemans story.
"Cranswick's breadth and depth of resources and industry experience make them a really good fit for the growth and future of Blakemans and its staff.
"The process has been handled expertly by Lisa, Sophie and everyone involved at Knights and is the culmination of more than a decade of support and guidance."
Knights' team was led by Lisa Bridgwood and Sophie Knapper, supported by Gareth Burge, Mattias McDonald, Lydia Redhead, James Lunt, Elin Davies and Lauren Green.
Lisa Bridgwood, General Counsel at Knights, said:
"Working with Sue and Phil over many years, I know how much they have put into the family business and it was a pleasure to support them in the sale to Cranswick. The acquisition provides a great platform for the next stage of Blakemans' story - building on the journey so far, which has seen the business become a well-known name here in Staffordshire."