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Meet The BTC Team

Personnel

Our Team Members

team of experts

  • Get To Know Us

  • Looking Toward The Future

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Business Trading Company UK (BTC UK) is a holding and investment company. Established in 2015, the core team has nurtured a growing reputation as a source of growth capital for UK brands.

BTC UK Managing Director

Mehdi joined BTC in 2014, masterminding its launch in the UK market. Having overseen the initial acquisition of SOHO Coffee Co, he developed it into a holding company. This facilitated the acquisition of Euphorium Bakery; high quality hospitality brands that fit perfectly within the BTC Hospitalityity portfolio. Since then, Mehdi has launched BTC UK’s real estate investment platform, announced to the market with the acquisition of the iconic Bow Street Magistrates Court in the heart of London. Looking ahead, Mehdi will continue to oversee operations in the UK, guiding the group’s deployment of capital to quality, promising brands, together with unique real estate opportunities to deliver world-class hotels to the UK. As BTC UK develops, Mehdi will manage the process of strengthening both strands of the business, creating a trusted source of growth capital for exciting brands and hotels.

Mehdi Ghalaie

BTC UK Managing Director

Chief Operating Officer

Thomas Bloor joined the business in May 2025 as Chief Operating Officer, where he holds executive responsibility for the company’s strategic vision, operational performance, and continued growth across its portfolio. With extensive experience in the hospitality sector from his time at Pret a Manger and Paul UK, Thomas brings a strong track record of driving business transformation, enhancing guest experiences, and building high performing teams. His leadership style combines commercial acumen, with a people first approach, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Thomas is passionate about delivering sustainable long-term value for stakeholders while maintaining the highest standards of quality and customer satisfaction. Under his guidance, BTC UK continues to evolve in a dynamic industry, adapting to emerging trends and setting new benchmarks for success.

Thomas Bloor

Chief Operating Officer

Group Finance Director

Rish Ruparelia is a Chartered Accountant with over 25 years of experience across sectors such as food services, retail, property, and financial services, including more than six years in hospitality. He joined BTC UK in April 2025, bringing strong financial and commercial expertise developed through roles with major brands like Starbucks Coffee and Westbury Street Holdings. He has deep knowledge of hospitality operations, alongside expertise in finance transformation, process improvement, internal controls, automation, and M&A. Rish has worked with both listed and private equity-backed companies and has strong technical skills in US reporting and SOX compliance. At BTC UK, he oversees financial management and supports growth, using his analytical and strategic approach to drive efficiency and long-term sustainable success.

Rish Ruparelia

Group Finance Director

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