CPL Group has formally announced the successful signing of a Sale of Business Agreement with Taylor Pacific Limited, marking a significant transition of its Stop & Shop Division.
Effective 11th August 2025, Taylor Pacific Limited will assume full operational responsibility for all seven Stop & Shop outlets in Port Moresby, including in-store food service brands Bon Café and Fresh Express. This move follows the finalisation of a confidential Heads of Agreement signed between the parties in June 2025.
Taylor Pacific Limited, a locally registered PNG company, has a growing investment portfolio in agriculture and livestock, including ownership of Hugo Canning, producers of the iconic Ox & Palm Corned Beef, and Sepik Fresh Poultry Farm. The company also has plans underway to develop additional poultry and beef operations in Vanapa, Central Province, to help meet Papua New Guinea’s increasing demand for locally produced food.
This strategic divestment aligns with CPL Group’s broader business realignment strategy, with renewed focus on its core mission: delivering affordable, accessible healthcare across Papua New Guinea.
“This decision reflects our commitment to long-term value creation for our shareholders and operational focus,” said Stan Joyce, Chairman of CPL Group. “We are confident that Taylor Pacific will continue to uphold the strong community relationships and service excellence that define the Stop & Shop brand.”
Sir Mahesh Patel, Founder of CPL Group, added, “We are immensely proud of the legacy Stop & Shop has built over the past two decades. We look forward to seeing the brand grow under Taylor Pacific’s stewardship.” He further noted that the transition will allow CPL to accelerate its investments in healthcare, including the recently launched CP Medical and Diagnostic Clinic at Vision City Mall.
As part of the agreement, both CPL Group and Taylor Pacific Limited have pledged to ensure continuity of employment for all current Stop & Shop staff. This commitment reflects both organizations’ shared values around community support and local workforce development.
Customers can expect business to continue as usual from the official transition date. The same friendly service and familiar staff will remain, the Real Rewards Loyalty Program will continue, and support to SMEs and local farming communities will be maintained.
Following the overwhelming public appreciation for CPL’s first CP Medical and Diagnostic Clinic at Vision City Mall, CPL is now progressing with a strategic expansion of its medical clinic network across the country. These efforts are designed to enhance access to quality, affordable healthcare services and reaffirm CPL’s commitment to supporting the health and wellbeing of communities throughout Papua New Guinea.
CPL extends its deepest gratitude to all customers who have supported the Stop & Shop brand over the past 20 years. The Group remains firmly dedicated to helping Papua New Guineans live better and healthier lives through sustainable healthcare development and innovative service delivery.