Welsh sausage company Langford’s to be sold to Red Sky Food Group
Red Sky Food Group is acquiring Langford’s in a joint investment by Literacy Capital and Mark Chantler. The deal includes management changes and outlines plans for future expansion in the protein sector.
WALES – Langford’s, a meat processing business based in Welshpool, Wales, is changing ownership following a new investment deal.
The company has been acquired through Red Sky Food Group, a new platform formed by UK-based private equity firm Literacy Capital and food industry veteran Mark Chantler.
According to Literacy Capital, the two investors are splitting their stake equally in the Welsh sausage manufacturer, though the value of the deal has not been disclosed.
Langford’s, known for its sausage production, was launched in 2003 by co-founders John Langford and Christine Gethin.
Following the acquisition, the day-to-day operations of the business will now be overseen by Josh Gethin, Christine’s son, who steps into the role of managing director.
The transaction allows the original founders to exit the business, with Literacy Capital confirming that the investment enables their retirement.
Mark Chantler, previously the CEO of Meadow Foods, will serve as executive chairman of Red Sky Food Group and will help lead future acquisition strategies in the sector.
Richard Pindar, CEO and co-founder of Literacy Capital, stated that Langford’s is the first company to be brought under the Red Sky Food Group umbrella, following a period of reviewing multiple food manufacturing opportunities.
Red Sky Food Group plans to focus on acquiring more businesses within the food production industry, particularly those involved in protein-based products.
Langford’s currently operates from its facility in Powys, employing 40 people and mainly supplying its products to foodservice clients.
In its financial report for the year ending October 31, 2024, Langford’s posted a revenue of US$18.3 million (£14.8 million), reflecting a 1.8% increase from the prior year.
The company’s operating profit climbed to US$3.3 million (£2.7 million), up 35.6%, while net profit rose by 30.6% to US$2.6 million (£2.1 million).
Langford’s has expressed confidence in future growth, forecasting higher revenue for the year ending October 31, 2025.
Its facility currently has one production line capable of producing 500 sausages per minute, with equipment already installed for a second line to boost output.
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