Hill Biscuits has been sold to Spanish manufacturer

Hill Biscuits has been sold to the UK arm of Spanish manufacturer, Cerealto, for an undisclosed sum.

One of Tameside’s most well-known and longest-serving companies, Hill Biscuits began life as a small Dukinfield shop run by John and Sarah Hill in 1855.

Since becoming its majority shareholder in 2017, LDC – a part of the Lloyds Banking Group – has helped to double Hill’s revenue to £40m, with sales growth of 44 per cent last year.

“This exciting opportunity allows us to harness and energise the experience and excellence of our two bakeries,” said a statement from Hill Biscuits CEO, Frank Bird. “This acquisition marks a pivotal moment in our journey to become the leading provider of everyday essential biscuits.

“I want to extend my gratitude to LDC,” Bird continued. “With their support, we have built a dedicated leadership team that has significantly grown our business. LDC has provided us with the confidence and resources to develop, invest, and innovate. Over the past seven years, we have made notable strides in enhancing our processes and products.

“Now, as we approach our 170th anniversary next year, we’re looking forward to partnering with Cerealto UK, and are poised to accelerate growth and innovation even further.”

Hill make millions of biscuits each year, including custard creams, fig rolls and bourbons from their Tudno Mill headquarters in Ashton, where they have operated since 1893. They employ around 350 people, and it is unknown if any jobs will be at risk.

Ceralto, meanwhile, is an own-brand specialist that claims to be Europe’s largest manufacturer of biscuits, pasta, snacks and breakfast cereals.