A bakery supplier for the likes of Greggs and Krispy Kreme has hired its new chief executive from a family-owned Kuwaiti retail company founded in the 19th century.

BFP Wholesale, based in Sevenoaks, has appointed Bill Thurston from the food division of Alshaya Group, where he was vice president.

The Middle East company, founded in 1890, operates a series of franchises across the region including Starbucks, Pinkberry and Pizza Express.

Mr Thurston is also a former chief executive of Langmead Farms, a salad and vegetable producing company, and ex-managing director of Vion Food Group’s international division for fresh meat, covering the UK, Middle East, India and the Far East.

In the bakery ingredients sector, he has held senior positions at international manufacturing and distributing firms Dawn Foods and CSM Bakery Supplies.

His appointment follows BFP’s acquisition by private equity consortium Zimt Holding in July last year, founded by investment gurus David Burresi and Sebastian Sipp.

The Kent company, which employs more than 150 people across four UK sites, was made a series of strategic changes since it was sold by conglomerate owner Lesaffre.

The firm, which has an annual turnover of £75 million, has also made several investments into its warehousing and distribution systems and overhauled its management team.

Zimt Holding partner David Burresi said: “Bill is an exceptional leader with an extensive track record and we are delighted to welcome him to BFP.

“His experience will be invaluable to the successful implementation of our investment plan that sees the introduction of new people, processes and technology.”

Mr Thurston added: “It is an exciting time to be joining BFP under the ownership of Zimt.

“We have significant plans for the growth of the business and to further build on the relationships with both new and existing customers.”