The UK Afro-Caribbean grocery market: Ade's Foods'

28 April 2025.  Field visit Forgotten Foods Consortium, supported by the Global Forum for Agricultural and Innovation Research (GFAiR) - visit to Ade's Foods.

Ade's Foods, officially known as Ades Limited, was founded in 2004 by Nigerian entrepreneur Michael Adedipe. Recognizing a growing demand for authentic African and Caribbean food products in the UK, Adedipe established the company to serve both retail and wholesale customers. 

Mr. Michael Adedipe is a prominent figure in the UK's Afro-Caribbean food retail sector, serving as the CEO of Ade's Foods, also known as Ade's Cash & Carry. Under his leadership, the company has expanded its presence.

A  cornerstone for Afro-Caribbean communities

The first store opened in Charlton, southeast London, and quickly became a cornerstone for Afro-Caribbean communities seeking familiar ingredients and products. Over the years, Ade's Foods expanded its offerings to include a wide range of groceries, cosmetics, and household items, solidifying its reputation as a comprehensive supplier for diverse cultural needs.

In July 2014, Ade's Foods celebrated the grand opening of its second retail store in Thamesmead, southeast London, marking a significant milestone in the company's growth. 

Under Adedipe's leadership, Ade's Foods has continued to thrive, earning recognition as one of the UK's most dynamic small and medium-sized enterprises. The company's commitment to quality products and customer service has made it a trusted name among both individual shoppers and businesses across the UK

Ade's Foods sources its products from a diverse network of suppliers across Africa and the Caribbean, ensuring authenticity and quality in its offerings. By importing directly from countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Jamaica, 

Ade's Foods provides customers with genuine ingredients and products that reflect the rich culinary traditions of these regions. This commitment to authentic sourcing allows Ade's Foods to cater to the diverse tastes and preferences of its clientele, offering a wide range of groceries, meats, and specialty items that are integral to African and Caribbean cuisines.

Among the best-selling products at Ade's Foods are staple items such as Ghana gari, a fermented cassava flour essential in many West African dishes, and natural roasted peanuts, which are popular for their versatility and flavor. 

Additionally, the store offers a variety of ready-to-eat meals like jollof rice, efo egusi, and yam porridge, which are prepared using traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients. 

These products resonate with customers seeking convenient yet authentic meal options that bring the taste of home to their tables. 

The popularity of these items underscores Ade's Foods' role in preserving and promoting African and Caribbean culinary heritage in the UK.