Palmer and Harvey

Palmer and Harvey[edit | edit source]

Palmer and Harvey (P&H) was a significant British wholesaler serving multiple retailers in the UK. The company was established in 1925 and was known for its extensive distribution network.

History[edit | edit source]

Palmer and Harvey was founded in 1925 by Archie Stone, a tobacconist, and David Frankel, a confectioner. The company initially started as a tobacco and sweets wholesaler. Over the years, it expanded its product range to include alcohol, groceries, and frozen food.

Operations[edit | edit source]

Palmer and Harvey operated from several distribution centres across the UK. The company's distribution network was one of the largest in the country, delivering to more than 90,000 retail outlets.

Products[edit | edit source]

Palmer and Harvey offered a wide range of products, including tobacco, alcohol, groceries, and frozen food. The company also provided a variety of services to retailers, such as store development and category management.

Financial Troubles and Closure[edit | edit source]

In 2017, Palmer and Harvey entered administration due to financial difficulties. Despite attempts to secure a rescue deal, the company was unable to find a buyer and ceased trading. The closure resulted in the loss of over 2,500 jobs.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Despite its closure, Palmer and Harvey left a significant legacy in the UK wholesale industry. The company's extensive distribution network and wide range of products made it a key player in the sector for many years.