Veggie foodservice business Bespoke Kitchen Foods has secured backing from Lloyds’ private equity arm LDC.
LDC’s investment follows three years of rapid expansion at Bespoke, with company averaging 18% revenue growth per year.
In January 2025, the business grew its headcount to more than 100 staff by opening a new manufacturing facility. It was now at a “pivotal moment” in its existence, according to CEO Sam Tidball.
With “more people than ever before” choosing to reduce their meat consumption, the vegan and vegetarian food manufacturer would be better placed to “seize opportunities for growth in new categories and markets” in partnership with LDC, he said.
Bespoke supplies premium products to leading UK pubs, restaurant chains, and foodservice wholesalers, working with clients to develop products according to their needs.
The UK’s vegan and vegetarian food market is currently growing at more than 11%, according to market research firm IMARC Group.
LDC said it would support Bespoke’s “ambitious” organic and acquisitive growth strategy, which focused on pushing into new segments including high street casual dining chains.
“Bespoke is a fantastic example of the innovation and ambition that characterise the food and drink sector,” said LDC investment director Simon Peacock.
LDC has backed Bespoke’s current management team, led by Tidball. Peacock will join Bespoke’s board, along with David Bains, LDC partner and East Midlands and East of England head.
Chris Copestake, foodservice industry veteran and former Freshcut Foods CEO, will join as executive chairman. Robert Burrell, formerly of theme park firm The Mellors Group, has joined as CFO.
Peacock added: “Sam and the team are well positioned to take advantage of rising demand for their products among an increasingly health-conscious customer base, as well as to make strategic acquisitions in a highly fragmented market.
“We’re looking forward to using our experience to support them as they pursue their goals over the next few years.”
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