Steelite, a Horeca supplier of tabletop, buffet and lighting, has acquired Utopia Tableware.
The acquisition adds Utopia’s product lines, brands, a centralised distribution centre and decorating facility to Steelite’s global footprint and portfolio. With this strengthened offering, Steelite will continue to deliver growth in the UK and Europe.
Founded in 2000 and based in Chesterfield, UK, Utopia offers a range of tableware, glassware and accessories for the hospitality and branded glass market.
Steelite and Utopia began a commercial partnership in 2023 when Steelite became the exclusive distributor for Utopia, Pasabahce and Nude products in the US.
Steelite acquired Utopia from its founder and ceo, Mark Rmmell and his family, who built the company into one of the leading tableware suppliers in the UK.
“Mark Rammell and his team created a business with terrific products, people and culture and we strongly believe Utopia is the perfect addition to Steelite,” stated Steelite International’s president and ceo, John Miles. “Furthermore, the Utopia acquisition is a testament to our deep commitment and belief in the continued opportunities for the global hospitality industry. This combination will provide our customers and end users with an enhanced array of innovative products and outstanding service that has become synonymous with both companies.”
“We are thrilled about the future as we join Steelite, a company that shares our vision for growth and a commitment to our same core values,” said Mark Rammell. “This acquisition places our business in great hands, ensuring continued success, growth and innovation. Together, the two companies can build on our strong foundations to achieve even greater things for our valued customers.”
Steelite is majority owned by Arbor Investments, a private equity firm that focuses exclusively on acquiring premier companies in food, beverage, and related industries. Arbor acquired Steelite in December 2019 and has made significant investments to grow the business both organically and through acquisitions. The Utopia transaction represents Steelite’s seventh acquisition under Arbor’s ownership.
“We can’t think of a better fit between two businesses – the symmetries across cultures, product-centricity and approaches to customer service are really compelling,” commented George Russell, Arbor principal. “Utopia brings a tremendous team, operating expertise, and industry-leading digital capabilities that we plan to leverage across the broader global Steelite platform. This deal positions Steelite to rapidly accelerate its international growth plans, while further strengthening the product offering and service capabilities offered to its core US and UK customers.”
