Lancashire jobs saved as two companies rescued

Two companies have been bought out of administration, saving jobs in Waterfoot and Blackburn.

Healthy eating catering provider Soulmate Food Limited, which has offices in Manchester and a production facility in Lancashire, has been purchased by fellow health food supplier Kettlebell Kitchen, saving approximately 20 jobs.

Jason Elliott, Ben Cowgill and Craig Johns from insolvency practitioners Cowgill Holloway Business Recovery were appointed as joint administrators.

Jason Elliott said: “It’s great to be able to rescue the business and save the jobs of Soulmate Food. The successful party has allowed the continuity of supply to customers, therefore preserving the goodwill and intangible asset value, and has provided ongoing employment to the workforce.

“Kettlebell Kitchen is a growing brand across Manchester, and it feels like a great fit for Soulmate Food.”

Jamie Alaise, Director of Kettlebell Kitchen said: "Soulmate Food is a fantastic brand built up over 9-10 solid years - one of the very first to launch into this market. With a strong and more southern clientele complimenting Kettlebell Kitchen's more Northern customer base, this now positions us as one of the largest meal preparation companies within the UK.

Kevin Pinkerton and Miles Hacking from Freeths advised Soulmate Food Limited, with Rachael Bentley of Knights Solicitors advised Kettlebell Kitchen.

Meanwhile, AIM-listed vending machine specialist Uvenco, and its subsidiaries Snack in the Box and Drinkmaster have been sold out of administration, saving a total 169 jobs.

The London-based organisation has a base in Blackburn.

Howard Smith and David Costley-Wood from KPMG were appointed joint administrators, and immediately, the trading business and its assets were sold to subsidiaries of the Montagu Group. Howard Smith, associate partner at KPMG and joint administrator, said: “The companies had experienced declining revenues over a prolonged period, significantly impacting cash flows. Following an accelerated sales process, we are delighted to have been able to safeguard all 169 jobs with this sale of the business and assets. We wish the new owners well in the future.”