About Us - History Timeline

Janurary

Campbell's Launch 

Absent from British supermarket shelves for the past few years, the iconic and much-loved Campbell’s brand has made a comeback January 2012 in partnership with Symington’s. The company has launched its first Campbell’s-branded range of dry products in the UK, which are high quality, delicious and rich in flavour. The range includes instant dry soups, simmer soups, savoury rice and pasta & sauce, and features striking, contemporary branding, inspired by the traditional red and white cans so familiar with British consumers.

July

Campbell's Condensed Launch

After being off the UK shelves for over three years Campbell’s iconic condensed soup is back, from the 1st of August the tinned soup will be available in stores nationwide. David Cherrie, Symington’s Marketing Controller said: “Campbell’s is a distinctive brand and condensed soup is what it is most well known for. Whether it is being used to make a pasta sauce or just being enjoyed on its own, it is a trusted name that resonates well with mums of all ages. We are really confident that consumers will be thrilled to have this store-cupboard essential back and we are delighted to be involved with the brands re-launch into the UK.”

Acquisition of La Rochelle

In July Symington’s added to its growing portfolio by acquiring La Rochelle Foods Ltd. La Rochelle were a small company in Leigh supplying croutons to some of the major retailers under the La Rochelle brand. There are 9 SKUs in the range consisting of a mixture of soup/salad croutons and bacon sprinkles. The products will become part of the Symington’s Millerdale site and will be re-launched and re-designed with improved product quality and taste. This is a great opportunity for Symington’s to add to its portfolio with a recognised brand which has been around for 25 years and increasing its share in the UK crouton market.

Re-launch of James martin Bakery Range

TV favourite James Martin has launched a brand new range of home baking mixes; offering delicious and easy-to-make treats that are bound to get your tastebuds excited. From keen cooks to baking novices – these mouth-watering products have something for everyone - from speciality bread mixes to on trend cupcake mixes as well as an adaptation of James Martin’s very own signature delicious chocolate cake mix.

Acquisition of Chicken Tonight and Ragu from Unilever

Symington’s is pleased to announce the acquisition of Unilever brands Chicken Tonight and Ragu. This substantial achievement will bring Symington’s annualised gross sales to around £150m. David Salkeld, Chief Executive at Symington’s said: “The Unilever acquisition is a significant step for our business and we are delighted to have completed the deal. We have a proven track record of taking on heritage brands, rejuvenating them and introducing new product developments.