Waitrose expands into meal kits with Dishpatch takeover

Waitrose has snapped up restaurant meal kit brand Dishpatch, expanding the retailer’s direct-to-consumer business.

The finish-at-home meal kit business was founded in 2020 and offers customers meals designed by celebrity chefs including Angela Hartnett, Michel Roux Jr and Rick Stein.

Waitrose – the grocery arm of the John Lewis Partnership – said it sees “significant opportunities” for Dishpatch following the deal.

Dishpatch customers can order food from more than 40 menus, with food and wine delivered on Fridays and dishes pre-prepared to be finished and served at home.

The companies confirmed Peter Butler will continue as Dishpatch chief executive.

James Bailey, executive director for Waitrose, said: “Waitrose sees significant opportunities for Dishpatch, which works with some of Britain’s most respected chefs and restaurants.

“We have shared values in serving our customers the best quality food and we’re looking forward to working together.

“While our immediate focus will be helping Dishpatch grow its core meal kit business, we are also looking forward to working with the team to bring further new and exciting food experiences to Waitrose customers.”

Mr Butler, founder and chief executive of Dishpatch, said: “Since launching in 2020, our mission at Dishpatch has always been to bring the most exciting, high-quality restaurant food into more people’s lives.

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Waitrose, whose reputation has been built on the quality of their food. With such aligned values, we’re excited to bring our meal kits to a wider audience and exploring new opportunities beyond that.”