US food giant Sysco Corporation has completed its takeover of a wholesaler in the county after being given the all-clear by competition authorities.

The Houston-headquartered firm has not disclosed how much it paid for Kent Frozen Foods, known as kff, which is based in Aylesford and Oxfordshire.

The Competition and Markets Authority launched an investigation into the takeover in January but announced last week it did not believe the deal would lead to a substantial lessening of competition.

Under the deal, kff will continue to operate as an independent entity with the ability to capitalise on a close working relationship with its new parent company's other UK and European businesses.

These include Fresh Direct, M&J Seafood and Brakes, which has a base in Ashford.

Ajoy Karna, a senior vice president at Sysco, said the acquisition "is a perfect addition to our portfolio of businesses in the UK”.

kff was advised on the deal by accountant RSM, which has a base in Tunbridge Wells.

Corporate finance partner Kirsty Sandwell, who led the team, said: ‘This is a fantastic deal for Kent Frozen Foods’ shareholders and provides new opportunities for growth with the support of one of the world’s leading industry players.

"It was great to work with the kff management team and shareholders and I’m delighted that together we were able to get this deal over the line."

Legal advice was provided to kff by Tunbridge Wells-based Cripps.