A.F. Blakemore and Marston's Extend Strategic Partnership with New Eight-Year Contract

A.F. Blakemore's Food & Retail Solutions division has renewed its long-standing strategic partnership with leading local pub company Marston's, through a new eight-year contract, extending the relationship until October 2033.

The partnership, which began in 1997 when Marston's operated around 200 managed pubs, now supports approximately 700 managed and partnership pubs across the group's 1,300-strong estate. Over nearly three decades, the collaboration has evolved into a deeply integrated supply relationship built on trust, shared ambition and a commitment to delivering everyday excellence.

A.F. Blakemore provides national multi-temperature food distribution, consistently achieving industry-leading service levels of 99%+. This enables Marston's teams to plan effectively, manage seasonal peaks and deliver great guest experiences across their estate.

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Lawrence Shirazian, Managing Director of Food & Retail Solutions at A.F. Blakemore, said: "I am absolutely delighted that we have extended our long-standing strategic partnership with Marston's. This renewal marks a new chapter in our collaboration, built on trust, shared ambition and a drive to deliver even greater value for the future."

The new contract reflects a shared focus on continuous improvement and cost efficiency, underpinned by a flexible supply chain model tailored to Marston's evolving needs. The Food & Retail Solutions team plays a key role in supporting menu launches, adapting to seasonal trading patterns and delivering insight-led solutions.

David Cartwright, Group Director of Procurement at Marston's PLC, added: "A.F. Blakemore has been a trusted partner for many years. Their flexibility, service levels and shared values have played a key role in supporting our growth. We're excited to continue working together to deliver great experiences for our guests and pub teams."

Looking ahead, the partnership will focus on deeper integration across supply chain management, enabling more ambitious initiatives around innovation, sustainability and operational excellence.