ABP Group has acquired a stake in high end, Yorkshire-based beef processor, Dovecote Park, strengthening its position in the premium British beef market.

ABP Group has not publicly commented on its investment in the Yorkshire-based group.

It already has a strong presence in the UK with diverse operations from rearing and processing to sustainable, grass-fed beef and lamb.

ABP has an existing stable of premium brands, but Dovecote gives it a new opportunity to expand further on a British premium beef platform.

Dovecote Park, which has been in business since 1997, prides itself on being a supplier of "the finest British beef, veal and venison" to the retail, fine dining and food service sectors.

It is ultilmately controlled by the Extra Detail group of companies.

ABP secured its stake in Dovecote Park by acquiring a company called Benoni Holding Corporation, which had held a minority stake in Dovecote Park.

ABP Group

In a statement issued to Agriland the board of directors of the Extra Detail group of companies - owners of Dovecote Park Ltd - confirmed there had been "a change in the ultimate ownership of Benoni Holding Corporation, who hold a minority shareholding in the group".

"The acquisition of Benoni represents a long-term strategic investment for the ABP Group.

"Benoni, as a minority shareholder, will be supportive of the group’s strategic direction, whilst maintaining the policy of acknowledging the current board and management team's independent ability and authority to grow and develop the Dovecote Park business," the directors outlined.

Dovecote Park

Although ABP Group has declined to comment on its latest move, Companies House, the register of companies in the UK, shows that ABP's Tom Kirwan was appointed a director of Dovecote Park on June 16.

The Yorkshire-based beef processor is a major supplier to the butchers counter at all Waitrose supermarkets and to the likes of Gourmet Burger Kitchen, Burger King and Wentbridge House.