LDC, the private-equity arm of Lloyds Banking Group, has backed UK vegetarian food manufacturer Bespoke Kitchen Foods.
According to a joint statement shared by LDC, the private-equity group will support Bespoke’s “ambitious organic and acquisitive growth strategy, which is underpinned by expansion into new segments, including high street casual dining chains”.
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Bespoke supplies its food products to UK pub and restaurant chains as well as food wholesalers supplying foodservice channels.
According to its website, it sells savoury products such as plant-based burgers and pastries as well as sweet products like compotes and desserts and gluten-free items.
The company’s revenue has increased by 18% on average over the last three years, according to the statement, supported by the “rising popularity of vegetarian and vegan categories” and “more health-conscious dining”.
In January 2025, the vegan and vegetarian brand opened a new production facility near its headquarters to further increase its manufacturing capacity.
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By GlobalDataThe investment was led by LDC’s East Midlands and East of England team, including investment director Simon Peacock, and partner and head of the East Midlands and East of England David Bains, supported by investment executive Josh McHugh.
Following the transaction, Peacock and Bains will join Bespoke’s board as non-executive directors alongside Chris Copestake as executive chairman.
Commenting on the investment, Sam Tidball, CEO at Bespoke Kitchen Foods, said: “We’re at a pivotal moment in our business journey. Consumer preferences continue to evolve, and more people than ever before are choosing to reduce meat consumption when eating out.”
He added: “Partnering with LDC, an investor with deep sector experience based right on our doorstep, will help us to seize opportunities for growth in new categories and markets, all while continuing to provide exceptional culinary experiences for our customers right across the UK.”
Simon Peacock, investment director at LDC, added: “We’ve been investing in market-leading food and drink businesses for decades, and Bespoke is a fantastic example of the innovation and ambition that characterise the sector.
“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,” Peacock added.
In the last decade, LDC has invested £403m into 21 consumer businesses, with a combined enterprise value of £900m.
