Global law firm Eversheds has advised Equistone Partners Europe Limited, one of Europe’s leading mid-market private equity investors on its investment in Whitworths, the UK’s largest supplier of dried fruit, nut and seed products.

Equistone has taken a majority stake in a transaction which values the business at £90m.

Whitworths, a Northamptonshire-based company founded in 1886, supplies branded and own label dried fruit, nut and seed products, with approximately 30% market share in its category. The category has grown impressively through the economic downturn, achieving 7% growth per annum, as popularity of healthier food alternatives and home baking continues to increase.

The Eversheds team was led by private equity and consumer sector partner James Trevis, alongside partners Catherine Eley and Antony Walsh.

James Trevis commented:

“This looks a good investment for Equistone, which already has several noteworthy investments in the food sector, as the category looks set to continue to broaden its appeal with consumers. We wish Whitworths every success in the future."