Supplying groceries to more than 950 Spar stores across England and Wales, and owning 280 of its own, this family owned firm has been instrumental in maintaining Britain’s food supply during the pandemic. Most of its stores now offer a home delivery service. Established as a Wolverhampton grocery store in 1917, it is led by the founders’ grandson, Peter Blakemore, 76, and also operates divisions encompassing wholesale distribution, food service and shop-fitting. Last year, it bought the Philpotts chain of 22 sandwich shops.