Brynwood Partners, the investment group that owns Cold Spring Brewing, has announced the complete acquisition of Carolina Beverage Group from SunTx Capital Partners. The deal, agreed for an undisclosed sum, includes three manufacturing facilities, a warehouse and a broad range of value-added production services. Carolina Beverage is a contract manufacturer that processes malt beverages, distilled spirits, energy drinks, teas, functional drinks and RTD beverages. On completion of the deal, the …
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Mergers & Acquisitions
FrieslandCampina, the Dutch dairy giant, has announced that it has made an investment in the Ethiopian dairy firm Holland Dairy, in partnership with Veris Investments, an Amsterdam-based private equity firm. Veris Investments describes itself as an independent firm that “makes equity and mezzanine investments in companies and projects with activities in the food value chain in Sub-Saharan Africa”. FrieslandCampina said the deal would enable it to strenghten its export position in …
Avril, a French firm active in sectors such as oil, eggs and animal feed, has announced an alliance with the founding families of the Italian olive oil brand Costa d’Oro. “The partners aim to raise the Costa d’Oro brand to become the global reference in top quality olive oil, combining natural authenticity, innovation and traceability”, Avril announced in a statement. The deal will create the third most important olive oil brand …
MTR Foods, the Indian food manufacturer that is part of the Orkla group, is making an investment in the children’s food maker FirmRoots, according to a report in the Economic Times. The deal is the first to be concluded as part of Orkla’s 50 crore INR ($7.4 million) MTR Seed Fund, established last year to invest mostly in food-tech start ups in India. The amount of the stake and the …
Dutch brewer Heineken is expanding its presence in Central America with the acquisition of a minority stake in Belize Brewing, the leading beer firm in Belize. Belize Brewing is a subsidiary of Bowen & Bowen, which has been an importer and distributor of Heineken brands including Heineken, Amstel and Red Stripe in Belize since 2016. The firm also produces the market leading beer brand Belikin. Commenting, on the deal Marc Busain, President Americas at …
US e-commerce giant Amazon has added to its own brand line up of grocery products with the launch of a range of pet food under the name Wag, according to a report in CNet. The new brand is the latest addition to Amazon’s expanding portfolio of private label brands, which currently comprises more than 70 lines across a diverse range of product categories. The initial offering under the Wag brand …
US-based private investment firm Highlander Partners has acquired the confectionery portfolio owned by Finnish food and beverage firm Huhtamaki. In relation to the deal, Highlander Partners said it had created a new entity where the asset will be held and that will continue to license to chocolate maker Hershey under the same terms and conditions. The acquisition includes leading brands such as Jolly Rancher, Payday, Zero, Chuckles, Good & Plenty, …
The Serbian arm of consumer goods giant Nestle has announced that it is disposing of its children’s chocolate brand Cipiripi. The firm is selling the product line to Paracinki, a subsidiary of the distribution firm Silbo. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. The Cipiripi brand range includes confectionery bars, chocolate spread and chocolate drink mix. Commenting on the deal, Yana Mikhailova, regional director of South Eastern Europe at Nestle said: …
Snacks and confectionery multinational Mondelez has announced that it is expanding its brand portfolio with the acquisition of US biscuit maker Tate’s Bake Shop. Mondelez, which is acquiring Tate’s Bake Shop for almost $500 million from private equity firm The Riverside Company, will operate Tate’s Bake Shop as a separate standalone business. The company will continue to produce all of its products at its existing manufacturing facility, as well as …
Consumer goods giant Nestle has announced it has reached a deal with international coffee shop chain Starbucks, enabling it to market the latter’s retail and foodservice products across the globe. The $7.15 billion deal gives Nestle the right to market Starbucks branded products in perpetutity, enabling it to “capture exciting new growth opportunities in the rest of the world with Starbucks premium products”, the firm said in a statement. The company …
The Hut Group, the health & lifestyle e-retailer, is further strengthening its presence in the cosmetics space with the acqusition of mascara brand Eyeko, Cosmetics Business reports. Eyeko, a UK firm founded in 1999, specialises in a range of eye cosmetics including mascara, eyeliner and eyeshadow, as well as offering eye care products such as serum and cleansing wipes. The deal is the latest in a series of acquisitions that has …
Diageo, the global spirits firm, is making a further play in the mezcal space with the acquisition of ultra-premium brand Pierde Almas. Pierde Almas is produced in Oaxaca, Mexico from naturally fermented agave and is know for its social, cultural and environment awareness, the Spirits Business reports. The mezcal will be the second in Diageo’s portfolio. Its first was launched last year, following the company’s acquisition of the Casamigos business in a …
L’Oreal, the global beauty firm, has announced the acquisition of the Korean fashion and cosmetics firm Nanda for an undisclosed sum. Founded in the South Korean capital Seoul in 2004, Nanda is spearheaded by its make-up brand 3CE which today represents more than 70% of its business. The firm generated revenues of €127 million ($152 million) in 2017 and employs nearly 400 staff. Described as “a highly desirable brand among Korean and Chinese …
Lassonde, a producer of ready-to-drink fruit and vegetable juices and drinks, has announced that it has agreed a deal to acquire family-owned juice firm Old Orchard Brands for $146 million. Old Orchard Brands is headquartered in Sparta, MI and posted sales of $103.3 million for its 2017 fiscal year. Old Orchard is described as a leading brand in the shelf-stable fruit juice category across the central United States and the nation’s second largest brand in frozen juice …
Mitsubishi, the Japanese conglomerate which is active in the FMCG space through its Living Essential Consumer Products division, is to take a minority stake in the UAE frozen foods firm Al Islami Foods. The size of the stake was not disclosed. Al Islami, a subsidiary of the Dubai Cooperative Society, said that the decision to partner with Mitsubishi was the result of a study it had conducted into strategic NPD options, …
Supermarket chains Sainsbury’s and Asda, the 2nd and 3rd leading players in UK grocery retail respectively, have announced that they have reached an agreement to merge the two business in a deal that is set to shake up the UK supermarket sector. “The Combined Business will create a dynamic new player in UK retail with an outstanding breadth of products, delivered through multiple channels”, the two firms said in a statement. The …
Merck, a German firm active in sectors such as life sciences and healthcare, has that is has announced an agreement to sell its consumer health business to consumer goods giant Procter & Gamble for €3.4 million ($4.2 billion). The acquisition will allow P&G to expand its consumer healthcare portfolio to include brands such as Femibion, Neurobion, Nasivin and Seven Seas. Merck’s range includes products for muscle, joint and back pain, …
Bell Group, a Swiss firm predominantly active in the meat space, has announced an expansion of its activities in fresh packed fruit and vegetables with the acquisition of local firm Sylvain & Co for an undisclosed sum. Headquartered in the canton of Vaud in western Switzerland, Sylvain & Co produces a range of bagged salad leaves as well as ready-to-eat salads and fruit under its namesake brand. With annual revenues of …
Global beer giant AB InBev, via its venture capital division ZX Ventures, has announced the acquisition of UK-based spirits producer company Atom Group for an undisclosed amount. The deal will see AB InBev acquire Atom Group’s three business units: the online alcohol retailer Master of Malt, spirits distributor Maverick Drinks as well as spirits maker Atom Brands whose portfolio includes Ableforth’s gin and rum, The Handmade Cocktail Company and The …
Luxco, a US spirits firm, has announced that it has acquired a controlling stake in Niche Drinks, a maker of whiskey and liqueur based in Northern Ireland. Founded in 1983 and with a manufacturing site in the city of Derry, Niche Drinks produces a range of cream liqueurs, whiskeys and ready to drink cocktails for retail customers in Ireland, the UK, the USA and Europe, as well as marketing products under …
Grupo Apex, a Spanish producer of crisps and savoury snacks, is acquiring Valencia-based crisp maker and Aitana brand owner Papes Safor, according to a report in Sweet Press. “Papes Safor is a family company founded in 1992 that specialises in the manufacture of high quality crisps and snacks”, Grupo Apex said in a statement. “It shares with Grupo Apex an emphasis on careful selection of raw materials for use in …
Canadian speciality foods firm Premium Brands has announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Oberto, a US maker of meat snacks. Family-owned Oberto is a manufacturer of beef jerky and other protein-based snack foods located in Seattle, WA. The company owns brands such as Oberto, Pacific Gold and Cattleman’s Cut. IN addition to the Oberto acquisition, Premium Brands said it had further increased its investment in Vancouver-based …
Mahou San Miguel, the leading Spanish brewer, has announced the acquisition of 51.78% of bottled mineral water company Aguas del Valle de La Orotava. Aguas del Valle de La Orotava is a Canary Islands based company which owns the Fonteide and Los Alpes mineral water brands, as well as two springs on Tenerife. Mahou San Miguel said the deal would boost its position in the mineral water sector in Spain …
BrewDog, the UK-based beer firm, is expanding into the cider space with the acquisition of London producer Hawkes. Positioned as “saviours of cider”, Hawkes markets a range of cider under the Urban Orchard, Soul Trader and Elephants on Ice, as well as an alcoholic ginger beer and a cider / beer hybrid under the Hawkes name. In a statement, BrewDog said: “Hawkes’ approach to cider parallels our heritage with beer, …
Land O’Frost, the US sausage and deli meats firm, has announced the acquisition of fellow meat products manufacturer Wellshire Farms for an undisclosed sum. The Indiana-based firm said the deal “provides entry to [the] natural/organic market and supports Land O’Frost’s ongoing growth plans”. Wellshire Farms is described as a leading player in the natural & organic meat space, with distribution in specialty grocery retailers such as Whole Foods Market, Trader Joe’s and …
Fleury Michon, a meat products and ready meal manufacturer, is to purchase Paso Traiteur, a deli foods firm based in Olonne-sur-Mer, France, for an undisclosed sum. Employing 140 staff and operating two facilities, Paso Traiteur is a leader in chilled appetizers, primarily producing a variety of filled bread called prefou that is a speciality of the Vendee region. The firm also manufactures bread-based dumplings and mini burger appetizers. The acquisition is …
US-based food and beverage producer JM Smucker has announced an agreement to acquire Ainsworth Pet Nutrition for approximately $1.7 billion. Ainsworth Pet Nutrition is a privately-held company which produces and distributes premium-positioned pet food and pet snacks, including the Rachael Ray Nutrish brand. In addition to the company headquarters in Pennsylvania, the transaction includes two manufacturing facilities and a leased distribution facility. This acquisition reinforces JM Smucker’s position in pet …
Dunn’s River Brands, a beverage portfolio management company, has announced the acquisition of a majority interest in Temple Turmeric for an undisclosed sum, according to a BevNet report. New-York based Temple Turmeric produces a range of ‘elixirs’, raw vinegars and ‘pure prana shots’ made from organic whole root turmeric juice. In a statement, Temple Turmeric founder Daniel Sullivan said: “We were looking for new approaches to product development and Dunn’s …
European dairy co-operative Arla has announced its intention to sell cheese plant in Sonthofen, Germany to the dairy company Allgauer Hof-Milch. Arla said the decision was taken as the speciality cheese produced in Sonthofen no longer followed the strategic plan of its businesses in Germany and Europe. “All of our production sites in Germany are focused on supplying both the German market and our export markets, playing a crucial role …
GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), the UK based healthcare multinational, is to buy out its stake in its consumer healthcare venture with Novartis at a cost of $13 billion. The joint venture, which includes the toothpaste brand Sensodyne and painkiller brand Panadol, as well as Nicotinell stop smoking aids, was formed in 2015 as part of Novartis’ portfolio transformation, which comprised a three-part inter-conditional transaction with GSK, including the combination of the Novartis …
Global food company Flagship Food has announced the acquisition of the Select New Mexico brand from Es Mi Tiempo, for an undisclosed sum. Select New Mexico is a brand of green chilli food products that are sold in all US states as well as in the UK. Flagship Food said that it has no plans to change the product offerings or any relationships with suppliers or vendors. In addition, the …
French dairy multinational Danone has agreed to sell its joint venture Al Safi Danone to Saudi Arabia’s National Agricultural Development Company (NADEC) for an undisclosed sum, according to media reports. Al Safi Danone produces dairy and juice products for the Saudi Arabian market and was formed by Danone and Al Faisaliah Group Holding in 2000, with Danone holding the majority share in the business. Under the terms of the deal, …
Doux, the troubled French poultry processor, has filed for liquidation in the face of mounting losses. Reuters reports that Terrena, which acquired a majority stake in Doux two years ago, has been hit by cheaper imports from Brazil, particularly in its key exports in the Middle East. According to an article in Ouest-France, the business has been losing in the order of €3 million ($3.7 million) per month. Doux, which owns …
Buderim, an Australian producer of ginger products, has announced that it is acquiring the Hawaii, US based macadamia producer Royal Hawaiian Orchards and merging it with rival grower MacFarms to create the largest macadamia business in the continental USA. Royal Hawaiian Orchards and Buderim are respectively Hawaii’s largest and second largest macadamia nut orchard owners and together account for more than 65% of macadamia production in the US, according to Buderim. …
Premium Brands, a Canadian producer, marketer and distributor of branded food products, has announced the purchase of four businesses – Concord Premium Meats, The Meat Factory, Country Prime Meats and Frandon Seafood – as it expands its brand portfolio. The Meat Factory is an Ontario-based manufacturer of branded cooked protein products which owns Lou’s Barbeque, described as the number one brand in Canada in the fully cooked meals category. Country …
Henkell, the German subsidiary of the Dr. Oetker group specializing in wines and spirits, has announced the acquisition of 50.67% of the shares Spanish firm Freixenet, in a move that is claimed will create the world’s leading sparkling wine group. Henkell said the companies respective portfolios and international presence would “complement each other perfectly”. “While Freixenet stands for the world’s leading cava brand, Henkell’s Mionetto Prosecco is the world’s leading Prosecco and …
Natural foods firm Carrington Farms has announced the acquisition of Tera’swhey, the leading producer of organic whey protein in the US. Madison, WI based Tera’swhey was founded in 2009 and produces USDA. certified organic whey protein made from grass-fed dairy cows. The company also offers rBGH-free whey protein and goat whey protein powder. Announcing the move in a statement, the two firms described Tera’swhey’s products and approach as being “closely …
Italian-based gluten free company Dr Schar has announced the acquisition of Beladri, a Brazilian firm that has been producing gluten free products exclusively for 11 years. According to Giro News, Dr Schar has been studying ways to expand its portfolio in the Brazilian market and Beladri was seen as an opportunity to achieve that goal. Fernando Menezes, managing director at Dr Schar Brazil said: “Beladri has a product line that …
US food manufacturers Conagra Brands and JM Smucker have annnounced that they are to call off the the latter’s acquisition of the Wesson cooking oil brand, following objections raised by the Federal Trade Commission. In a statement, Conagra Brands said: “While we are disappointed by and disagree with the Commission’s decision, we have determined that it is in the best interest of our shareholders, customers and employees to terminate the …
Potato and frozen food specialist McCain, via its Brazilian subsidiary, is taking a 49% stake in Forno De Minas, a manufacturer of traditional Brazilian pao de queijo (‘cheese bread’), according to a report in Foodbev. Founded in 1990, Forno De Minas manufactures a range of frozen and fresh products including waffles, filled pasta and puff pastry, in addition to its flagship pao de queijo product line, a category in which …
Jumbo and Coop, two leading Dutch grocery retailers, have announced the acquisition of the retail chain Emte from Sligro Food for €410 million ($506 million). The proposed sale includes Emte’s 130 supermarkets, its retail distribution centres in Kapelle and Putten, its meat plant in Enschede and its supporting operational and commercial departments at the head office in Veghel. The deal will also see Emte’s supermarket real estate sold to the same …
Fonterra Ventures, the investment arm of the New Zealand dairy giant, has announced that it is bolstering its presence in the nutrition space through an investment in Goodminton, the German holding company behind the Foodspring start-up. Described as Fonterra Ventures’ “first strategic partnership”, the deal will enable Fonterra to tap into active nutrition, a segment which it described as rapidly expanding. Commenting on the deal, Judith Swales, Fonterra chief operating offficer, Velocity …
General Mills, the leading US food producer, has expanded into the natural pet food space with the acquisition of Blue Buffalo, in a deal that has an enterprise value of approximately $8.0 billion. Founded in 2002, Blue Buffalo is described as a fast-growing major pet food company that markets natural foods and treats for dogs and cats under the Blue brand. Blue is claimed to be the number 1 “wholesome natural pet food …
Dr. Oetker, the German food firm, and Bavarian dairy company Molkerei Gropper have announced they are to join forces to invest in the manufacture of new refrigerated product lines. The 50:50 joint venture will see Dr. Oetker contribute its chilled products plant in Moers to the new company, while Molkerei Gropper is to effect a capital increase in the same amount to be used to invest in buildings, infrastructure and new production facilities. Production will …
Albertsons, the US grocery retailer, has announced that it has reached an agreement to merge with Rite Aid, a leading pharmacy chain, in a cash and stock deal. Rite Aid shareholders will own a 28 to 29.6% stake in the combined company, whilst current Albertsons shareholders will own a stake from 70.4 percent to 72 percent in the combined company, upon the closure of the merger. “The combination will provide …
Bonduelle, the leading global vegetable firm, has announced an agreement to acquire the Del Monte processed fruit and vegetable business in Canada for a total value of C$43 million ($34 million). The deal with Conagra includes the right to use the Del Monte brand in different segments of processed fruits and vegetables but excludes all industrial and personnel assets. In a statement, Bonduelle said the acquisition “will complement Bonduelle Americas …
Tcho, a chocolate maker based in California, USA, has announced that it is to be acquired by the Japanese food giant Ezaki Glico. Previously owned by investment fund Emil Capital Partners, Tcho describes itself as a “premium” chocolatier “known for its bold packaging designs, innovative supply chain, and playful flavors”. It also claims to be a pioneer in sustainable and ethical sourcing, partnering directly with farmers, cooperatives, and cocoa scientists from …
French dairy multinational Danone has announced that it has decided to sell the majority of the stake it owns in probiotic dairy drink firm Yakult as it “enters a new phase in its strategic partnership” with the Japanese firm. According to reports, Danone will sell its 21.29% stake for around $1.9 billion, before participating in a share buyback scheme through which it is targeting a total of 7% of Yakult’s …
FMCG giant Nestle has announced that it has acquired the Latin America firm Terrafertil, a company selling natural, organic, plant-based foods and snacks, for an undisclosed sum. Founded in Ecuador in 2005, Terrafertil markets a range of plant-based foods, including fruit and nut snacks, non-dairy milks, grains, nut butters and juices under its flagship Nature’s Heart brand. The firm is the world’s largest buyer of goldenberries (also called cape gooseberry …
SHS Group, a firm representing leading FMCG brands in Ireland and UK, has settled a deal to purchase 3V Group, the owner of Meridian Foods and soft drink producer Rocks, for an undisclosed amount. Meridian Foods is one of the UK’s leading nut butter producers, manufacturing products such as almond butter, cashew butter and sunflower seed butter. The company also provides fruit spreads and nut-based snack bars. Rocks, meanwhile, is …
Unilever, the FMCG multinational, has announced that it has received a undisclosed offer from Dr. Oetker, the German pizza, desserts and culinary aids firm, to acquire its Alsa baking and dessert business. Alsa, which was acquired by Unilever in 2010, manufactures over 50 baking products for the French market including pastry aids, recipe mixes and jams for cake fillings. Commenting on the announcement, Didier Muller, general manager Dr. Oetker France, said: …
Global dairy company Arla has announced a licensing agreement with UK firm Yeo Valley Dairies, a subsidiary of the Yeo Valley Group, which will give Arla the right to use the Yeo Valley brand for milk, butter, spreads and cheese products. Yeo Valley is the UK’s largest organic brand and the largest family-owned dairy business, with a range of products that includes yoghurt, milk, butter, cream, ice cream and compote. …
Halewood, a UK wine and spirits specialist, has announced the acquisition of spiced rum brand Dead Man’s Fingers from Cornwall-based Rum & Crab Shack. The deal takes Halewood’s premium rum portfolio to four brands. The firm also markets Rum Sixty-Six, Liverpool Rum and Sadler’s Peaky Blinder Spiced Rum. Dead Man’s Fingers was created in 2015 as a blend of Caribbean rums, featuring notes of saffron cake, sweet Pedro X ice …
Kroger, the US grocery retailer, has announced it has reached an agreement to sell its convenience store business to UK forecourt retail firm EG Group for $2.15 billion. Kroger’s convenience store business operates in 18 states of the USA and includes 66 franchise operations. The stores employ 11,000 associates and operate under the names Turkey Hill, Loaf ‘N Jug, Kwik Shop, Tom Thumb and Quik Stop. Kroger’s convenience store business …
Global fruit and vegetable firm Fresh Del Monte has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Mann Packing, a leading marketer of fresh and value-added vegetable products in North America, for approximately $361 million in cash. Established in 1939 and based in Salinas, CA, Mann Packing is a leading grower, processor and supplier of fresh vegetables, including washed and ready to eat fresh-cut vegetables, snack packs and party trays, and washed …
Stryve Foods, a meat snacks start up, has announced that it has acquired the assets of Biltong USA, a manufacturer of African-style meat snacks. Described as one of the first USDA approved biltong manufacturers in the USA, Biltong USA produces sliced beef biltong, droewors and other related products in a range of 16 flavours. Stryve Foods said that the acquisition was a significant move for it to become the number one name in …
Orkla, the Scandinavian food giant, has announced the acquisition of bakery firm Struer Brod via its wholly-owned subsidiary Orkla Foods Sverige. Struer Brod was established in 1929 and predominantly manufactures bakery products such as breadcrumbs, as well as breakfast cereals, for both retail and foodservice channels. The firm has also supplied Orkla since 2012. In 2016, Struer Brod had a turnover of 114 million DKK ($19 million), about half of …
Hostess Brands, the US bakery manufacturer owned by Gores Holdings, has announced that it has acquired a number of assets from rival Aryzta as it looks to strengthen its hand in the breakfast foods space. The deal includes one of Aryzta’s Chicago Cloverhill bakery facilities (the largest individually-wrapped Danish pastry facility in North America), the Big Texas and Cloverhill brands and also supply partnerships with several key retailers of Hostess …
Multinational consumer goods firm Unilever has signed an agreement to acquire Romanian ice-cream producer Betty Ice for an undisclosed amount. Founded in 1994 by entrepreneur Vasile Armenean and with a total turnover of €30 million ($37 million), Betty Ice operates a manufacturing facility in Suceava as well as more than 180 ice-cream kiosks, employing 760 workers in Romania. Betty Ice sells ice cream positioned as standard, premium and super-premium with …
M Dias Branco, the market leader in biscuits and pasta in Brazil, has announced that it has agreed a deal to acquire its rival Piraque in a deal worth R$1.5 billion ($475 million). The company, which owns brands such as Adria, Richester and Vitarella, said that “the translation reflects M Dias Branco’s commercial strategy of accelerating growth in the South and Southeast regions, as well as expanding its portfolio with …
Coffee firm Keurig Green Mountain and soft drink company Dr Pepper Snapple have announced that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement to create a new combined company called Keurig Dr Pepper. Under the terms of the deal, Dr Pepper Snapple shareholders will receive a dividend of $103.75 per share (a total cash payment of $18.7 billion), and retain 13% of the combined company. Commenting on the deal, Keurig …
Fairfields Farm, a snack firm based in Colchester, UK has acquired its Manchester-based peer Ten Acre for an undisclosed sum. Ten Acre produces a range of handcooked crisps and has more recently branched out into popcorn, which it markets in flavours such as wasabi, fennel and lemon, cappuccino, and strawberries & cream. Foodbev reports that the acquisition was motivated in particular by Ten Acre’s export activities, with the firm currently selling …
Germany confectionery company Katjes Fassin has announced that it has acquired an unspecified stake in the UK sweets firm Candy Kittens. Founded in 2012 and promoted as “a fashionable confectionery brand that is truly young at heart”, Candy Kittens markets a range of “gourmet sweets” in flavours such as pineapple, watermelon and blueberry. The products are described as being free from gluten, artificial colours and artificial flavours. “Katjes is a …
Evolve Brands, a recently established health-focused snack holding company, has announced that it is has agreed to acquire the snack brands Gorilly Goods and Supernola, with the aim of consolidating the two businesses under one umbrella. Founded in 2012, Gorilly Good produces organic, raw and on-the-go snacks that come in both savoury and sweet flavours, made with non-GMO ingredients such as seeds, fruit, nuts and greens. Supernola, meanwhile, produces four …
Bacardi, the world’s largest privately-held spirits company, has announced that it is to acquire 100% of tequila firm Patron for an enterprise value of $5.1 billion. Bacardi had previously acquired a minority stake in Patron in 2008. The deal is set to make Bacardi the number one spirits player in the super-premium segment in the US, as well as the second largest spirits player in the country by value market share, …
The Nature’s Bounty Co, a manufacturer of nutrition products, has announced that it has acquired snack bar brand The Best Bar Ever. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. According to The Nature’s Bounty Co, The Best Bar Ever offer “real ingredients – no fillers or sugar alcohols, and are designed to contain an ideal blend of quality fats, carbs, and proteins in balanced ratios”. They are available in the health and fitness …
Edgewell Personal Care, a US-based manufacturer of shave, sun, skin and feminine care products, has announced an agreement to acquire Jack Black, a luxury male grooming company. Founded in Dallas, TX in 2000, Jack Black is described as the number one brand in the US men’s prestige skincare market and offers a product range spanning skincare, body care, shaving, hair care, fine fragrance, razors, and gift sets. Commenting on the deal, Edgewell …
Darell Lea, an Australian confectionery firm, has been acquired by the investment fund Quadrant Private Equity for A$200 million ($160 million), according to a Foodbev report. The sweetmaker, whose fortunes have been revived since being placed in voluntary administration in 2012, is the manufacturer of products such as Rocklea Road, Soft Eating Liquorice and Little Brittle. The firm operates two production sites and has more than 200 employees. Commenting on the …
Spanish food firm Ebro Foods has announced its latest acquisition: the purchase of a 70% stake in filled pasta firm Bertagni 1882. The binding agreement has been reached through Ebro Foods’ 100% subsidiary Panzani and 52% subsidiary Pastificio Lucio Garofalo, the firm said in a statement. Founded in Bologna, Bertagni 1882 is described as the oldest brand of filled pasta in Italy. It operates production plants in Vicenza and Avio and has …
Nomad Foods, the UK-based frozen food giant, has announced that it is set to acquire its Irish peer Green Isle, a subsidiary of Boparan Holdings and owner of the Goodfella’s pizza brand. Green Isle manufactures and distributes a portfolio of branded and private label frozen pizzas in the UK and Ireland. The Goodfella’s brand, which accounts for the majority of the firm’s revenues, was founded in 1993 and holds number one and number two market share …
FMCG multinational Nestle has announced that it has reached an agreement to sell its US confectionery unit to the Italian firm Ferrero for $2.8 billion. The Swiss giant first announced it was conducting a “strategic review” of its confectionery operations in the second quarter of 2017. Since then, the firm has been seeking to refocus its M&A activity on the health & wellness space, as well as high-growth segments such as …
The Australian arm of consumer goods giant Nestle has announced it has reached an agreement to sell its confectionery bar brand Violet Crumble to the Adelaide-based company Robern Menz for an undisclosed sum. As part of the deal, Robern Menz will acquire the plant, equipment and intellectual property associated with Violet Crumble. Manufacture is set to transfer to the Robern Menz factory in Adelaide, South Australia in the coming months. …
Constellation Brands, the leading wine, beer and spirits firm, has announced that it is taking a majority stake in US-based craft distiller Copper & Kings. Based in Louisville, KY, Copper & Kings produces a range of “untraditional, non-derivative” spirits including apple and grape brandies, absinthe, gin and liqueurs that are said to be non-chill filtered with no added colours, flavours or synthetic chemicals. In a statement, Constellation Brands said: “The collaboration …
Burts Chips, the UK-based crisp manufacturer, is branching out into popcorn with the acquisition of Savoury & Sweet, owner of the Lord Poppington’s and Popcorn & Me brands. The deal, said to be worth in excess of £10 million, will see an investment of around £5 million in Savoury & Sweet’s factory in Leicester, including a new popcorn production line, the Leicester Mercury reports. Savoury & Sweet, which manufactures popcorn …
Molson Coors, the US-based beer giant, has announced that it is to acquire UK cider firm Aspall for an undisclosed sum. Founded in 1728, Suffolk-based Aspall is an established brand of cider and cider vinegars whose brand portfolio includes Premium Cru Cyder, Aspall Cyder, Clement’s Four, Cyderkyn and Imperial Vintage. Molson Coors’ said that Aspall’s “high-quality portfolio strengthens Molson Coors’ position in a fast-growing market for premium cider in the UK”. Commenting …
French dairy giant Lactalis has announced an expansion into the growing ‘skyr’ segment with the acquisition of Siggi’s, a US-based manufacturer of Icelandic-style yoghurt. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Founded in 2005, Siggi’s offers Scandinavian-style skyr yogurts that are made with “simple ingredients, not a lot of sugar”. According to the company website, Siggi’s yogurts are free from artificial sweeteners and use only hormone-free milk from family farms. The firm …
Cargill, the commodities giant, has announced that it has acquired Pro-Pet, a dog food manufacturer based in Ohio, USA. Pro-Pet productes private label and co-manufactured pet foods, including the premium-positioned brand Black Gold. The firm has more than 150 employees and operates pet food manufacturing facilities in Owatonna, MN, St. Marys, OH and Kansas City, KS. Commenting on the deal, Cargill Feed and Nutrition president Pilar Cruz said: “Pro-Pet’s commitment to high-quality, …
Colian, a Polish manufacturer of confectionery, dried fruit and drinks, is to acquire Irish chocolate firm Lily O’Brien’s from investment fund The Carlyle Group for €40 million ($48 million). “Lily O’Brien’s represents a compelling strategic fit for Colian with its high level of brand recognition and market position, complementing Colian’s existing products”, The Carlyle Group said in a press statement. Founded in 1992, Lily O’Brien’s employs 120 people at its Newbridge …
Valeo Foods, the Irish foods company, is acquiring the confectionery arm of Finnish firm Raisio for an enterprise value of €100 million ($121 million). Raisio, predominantly known as the owner of the international Benecol brand, said that its confectionery operations in the UK and the Czech Republic would be transferred to become part of Valeo Foods via a share transaction. Raisio’s confectionery business includes the brands Poppets, Fox’s, XXX, Just and …
Asahi, the Japanese drinks giant, has announced that it is selling its 20% stake in Chinese beermaker Tsingtao Brewery in a deal worth about $941 million. The group first announced that it was looking to sell its holding in Tsingtao Brewery in October 2017. An 18% stake is being sold to the Chinese conglomerate Fosun for about $847 million, while Tsingtao Brewery itself will pay about $94 million for the …
Conagra Brands, the US packaged foods firm, has announced that it has reached a deal to acquire Sandwich Bros of Wiconsin, a manufacturer of frozen convenience breakfast foods and flatbread sandwiches. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Sandwich Bros.of Wisconsin’s offers “snack meals” such as chicken melts and cheeseburgers, as well as flatbread pocket sandwiches filled with cheese, egg, turkey, beef and sausage. The family-owned firm achieved approximately $60 million in …
German retailer Edeka has announced the acquisition of juice manufacturer Albi. According to Edeka, by taking over Albi – one of the leading fruit juice producers in Germany – the group will strengthen its positioning in the fruit juice segment. Albi will also complement the portfolio of Edeka fruit juice subsidiary Sonnlander, the firm added. Albi is a family-owned company that was founded in 1928, producing a range of fruit, …
Campari, the Italian spirits group, has announced that it is to buy brandy firm Bisquit Dubouche from its South African counterpart Distell. Established in 1819, Bisquit Dubouche offers a classic range of cognacs – namely Bisquit VS Classique, Bisquit VSOP, Bisquit Prestige and Bisquit XO, together with “rare collections” and limited editions, that are claimed to be “characterized by craft and unique features”. The Bisquit Cognac brand is expected to achieve pro-forma net sales of around €9 million ($10.7 million) in the …
ThaiBev, the leading Thai drinks firm, has announced that it has made a successful bid to acquire a majority stake in Vietnam’s state-owned beer maker Sabeco. In a statement, ThaiBev said it had agreed to acquire approximately 53.59% of all outstanding ordinary shares in Sabeco for an aggregrate price of approximately 156 billion THB ($4.77 billion). ThaiBev ultimately emerged as the only bidder for Sabeco, despite previous reports that a number …
FMCG giant Unilever has announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire US based personal care company Schmidt’s Naturals for an undisclosed sum. Schmidt’s Naturals is an Oregon-based company that produces personal care products such as deodorant, bar soap and toothpaste. According to a Unilever press release, Schmidt’s Naturals aims to make natural products accessible to everyone and produces award-winning deodorant formulas derived from plants and minerals. “Schmidt’s Naturals …
Hershey, the US confectionery firm, is taking its first significant step beyond the chocolate category with the acquisition of snack food firm Amplify Snack Brands for $921 million. The deal “strengthens Hershey’s position in the snacking aisle and broadens its portfolio of innovative savory snacking brands”, the company said in a statement. The Amplify Snack Brands portfolio includes SkinnyPop popcorn, Paqui tortilla crisps, Oatmega protein bars and Tyrrells potato crisps. Commenting on the …
Campbell Soup, the leading US food manufacturer, has announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire snacks firm Snyder’s-Lance in a deal worth $4.87 billion in cash. The deal, described as the largest in Campbell Soup’s history, is expected to create a combined entity with annual net sales in excess of $10 billion. Snyder’s-Lance is a major snack food firm that is said to have leading market positions in categories …
Anglo-Dutch FMCG giant Unilever has completed the long-awaited sale of its spreads business, having secured a deal worth €6.825 billion ($8.04 billion) on a cash-free, debt-free basis with investment firm KKR. Unilever’s Spreads business includes brands such as Becel, Flora, Country Crock, Blue Band, I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter, Rama and ProActiv. It operates across 66 countries and had a turnover of €3.032 billion ($3.57 billion) in 2016. Commenting on the move, …
Becle, the owner of the tequila brand Jose Cuervo, has announced that it is to acquire whisky brand Pendleton Whisky from spirits firm Hood River Distillers in a deal worth $205 million. Launched in 2003, Pendleton Whisky is described as one of the leading super-premium whisky brands in the USA and has an annual sales volume equal to more than 250,000 nine litre case equivalents. In addition to the flagship Pendleton Whisky, the firm …
Pioneer Foods UK, the UK division of the South African food manufacturer, has announced that it is acquiring UK cereal firm Good Carb Food Company. The transaction, which is effective immediately, sees Pioneer Foods UK acquiring 100% of the issued share capital of The Good Carb Food Company – owner of the market-leading Lizi’s granola brand – for an undisclosed sum. Pioneer Foods said it had been manufacturing Lizi’s brand granola products …
Portuguese retail and telecoms conglomerate Sonae is reportedly in talks to acquire Egyptian supermarket chain Spinneys, which is currently owned by Abraaj Group. According to an article in Jornal De Negocios (citing Bloomberg), the owner of the Continente chain is in negotiations with Abraaj Group over a potential deal that would reportedly be concluded with a local partner. Abraaj Group is also said to be negotiating the sale of Spinneys …
Jacobs Douwe Egberts, the world-leading specialist coffee maker, has made a bid to acquire the entirety of OldTown, a leading Malaysian manufacturer of coffee products and operator of coffee shops. In a statement, OldTown said the proposed pre-conditional cash offer for all the issued ordinary shares of OldTown represented a total aggregate consideration of approximately 1.47 billion MYR ($360 million). Founded in 1999, OldTown is involved n the manufacturing, marketing and …
Lactalis, the global dairy giant, is to cement its presence on the Brazilian market with the acquisition of milk processor Itambe Alimentos from CCPR, a dairy cooperative based in Minas Gerais. CCPR excercised a right to acquire the outstanding 50% of Itambe Alimentos from fellow Brazilian firm Vigor, following the latter’s acquisition by Mexican dairy giant Grupo Lala. The deal value will be in the order of $600 million, according to …
John B Sanfilippo, a US nut snacks firm, has announced that it has acquired roasted nut and snack mix firm Squirrel Brand for $31.5 million. Squirrel Brand is described as one of the leading suppliers of roasted nuts and snack mixes under the Squirrel Brand and Southern Style Nuts brands. Products are sold through grocery chains, warehouse clubs and mass merchandisers, in addition to a number of other channels. Squirrel Brand is reported as posting net sales …
Atrium Innovations, a Canada-based health products firm, is to be acquired by Swiss FMCG giant Nestle for $2.3 billion in cash. The firm, which describes itself as “a world-wide leader in nutritional supplements and one of the fastest growing companies in the industry globally”,will be acquired by Nestle from a group of investors including a company backed by the Permira Funds, Fonds de Solidarite FTQ and Caisse De Depot Et …
Germany-based multinational cheese maker Hochland has expanded operations with the acquisition of a cheese facility in Belinksky, Russia. According to sources, Hochland plans to enlarge and modernise the facility over the coming years. The site is set to produce retail branded cheese products as well as supplying cheese as a raw material for the Hochland processed cheese plant in Raos. Founded in 1927, Hochland specializes in the development, production, refinement and marketing …
Hain Celestial, the US organic and health foods manufacturer, has announced the “strategic acquisition” of the Welsh firm Clarks UK, a producer of natural sweeteners. Based in Newport, Clarks UK markets natural sweeteners including maple syrup, honey and carob, date and agave syrups under the Clarks name. Its Clarks branded maple syrup is described as the UK market leader. Commenting on the deal, Irwin D Simon, founder, president and chief executive officer …
Maple Leaf Foods, a Canadian manufacturer of meat products, has announced the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire plant-based protein firm Field Roast Grain Meat for $120 million, plus related costs. Field Roast Grain Meat is described by Maple Leaf Foods as a leading brand of premium grain-based ‘meat’ and vegan cheese products, with annual sales of approximately $38 million. Based in Seattle, USA, the firm manufactures lines of …
Pirate Life, a craft brewer based in Adelaide, Australia is to be bought by global beermaker AB InBev via its subsidiary Carlton United Breweries. Announcing the move in a statement, the two firms said the deal would enable Pirate Life to “continue its unprecedented growth path”. Established in 2014, Pirate Life produces a range of largely canned ales and stouts from its brewery in Hindmarsh, South Australia. The acquisition is …
Maxima Grupe, a Lithuania based holding company that controls retail chains, has announced that it has started negotiations to acquire Polish retail chain Emperia. According to the company, the investment would allow the group to further expand in Poland, where it is already present with the Aldik banner. Petras Jašinskas, chairman of the board at Maxima Grupe, said: “Expansion in Poland by acquiring operating retail chain is a logical and …
Global food giant Mars has purchased a minority stake in New York, USA based snacks manufacturer Kind. Announcing the move in a statement, the two firms said that Kind would continue to be operated independently in New York by its majority shareholders, founder and CEO Daniel Lubetzky and its management team, whilst Mars would support the company to expand outside of the USA and Canada. Grant F Reid, chief executive …
US-based Romana Food Brands, formerly known as Blackbird International, has acquired Canada-based pasta maker Pasta Romana for an undisclosed amount. Through the operation, Romana Food Brands said it was shifting its business to focus on the $98 billion Canadian food processing sector. Founded in 1996, Pasta Romana manufactures products such as fresh pasta, fresh filled pasta, sauces and pestos, with current production capacity of 2,000kg of pasta and 1,000 litres …
Arca Continental, described as Latin America’s second-largest Coca-Cola bottler, has announced the acquisition of US snacking firm Deep River Snacks for an undisclosed sum. The Mexican firm, which also owns the Wise Snacks, Bokados and Inalecsa brands, said that by expanding its portfolio it would “capture both the conventional and growing better-for-you segment within the snack category”. Deep River Snacks is said to be known for its colourful kettle-cooked potato …
Unilever, the FMCG multinational, has announced the expansion of its personal care portfolio with the acquisition of New York, USA based toiletries firm Sundial Brands for an undisclosed sum. Announcing the move in a statement, Unilever said that the move would “accelerate[] […] category growth by addressing under-served needs of multicultural and millennial consumers”. Founded in 1991, Sundial Brands manufactures haircare and skincare products predominantly focusing on the needs of consumers …
France-based dairy and drinks multinational Danone has invested in Kona Deep, a Hawaiian ocean bottled water that is claimed to be naturally rich in electrolytes. The company has taken a minority stake in the firm via its venture arm Danone Manifesto Ventures, participating in Kona Deep’s $5.5 million financing round, which includes Grand Crossing Capital and other Hawaiian investors. Kona Deep is described as offering a premium pure water with unique properties, …
Izico, the Dutch manufacturer of frozen snacks, is strengthening its position in the UK with the acquisition of vegetarian food producer Goodlife Foods. Goodlife Foods markets a range of frozen vegetable-based products, including vegetarian ready meals and meat-free sausages and burgers. The firm supplies both retail and food service channels and has been operating for over 25 years. According to the company website, Goodlife Foods “source[s] the healthiest vegetables from …
Lotte, the Far East conglomerate active in confectionery and other categories, is to buy the Indian ice cream firm Havmor for 1,020 crore INR ($158 million), according to an article in the Economic Times. The South Korea based firm said it would buy 100% of the shares in Havmor, enabling it to begin operations in the ice cream space in India. Havmor produces a broad range of over 150 different …
Procter & Gamble, the US-based consumer goods giant, has acquired the direct-to-consumer personal care firm Native Deodorant, according to a report in the Cincinnati Business Courier. Financial terms were not disclosed, but the deal is reported to have been completed for around $100 million in cash. Native is promoted as “deodorant that isn’t a chemistry experiment”, and in particular is claimed to be free from aluminium and parabens, instead being …
LVMH, the high-end wine and spirits firm, has announced the acquisition of a 60% stake in California-based winery Colgin Cellars. Founded by Ann Colgin in Napa Valley 25 years ago, Colgin Cellars is noted for wines such as Tychson Hill Cabernet Sauvignon, Cariad Napa Valley Red Wine, IX Estate Napa Valley Red Wine and IX Estate Syrah. According to the company website, “Colgin Cellars produces exquisitely handcrafted red wines using only the finest neo-classical winemaking …
Scandinavian FMCG firm Orkla has announced an expansion into the sports supplements space with the acquisition of Health And Sports Nutrition Group (HSNG), described as the largest e-commerce firm for sports nutrition in the Nordic region. HSNG runs the Gymgrossisten and Bodystore platforms, offering food, dietary supplements and health and well-being products in addition to clothing. equipment and accessories. The websites offer proprietary brands and products distributed on behalf of third …
US health and beauty retailer Cosmetics LK has announced the acquisition of Prolana, a nail care firm, for an undisclosed sum. Founded and launched in 2007, Prolana markets its flagship Nail Optimizer brand as a one-step solution for restoring and strengthening thin, brittle nails. Cosmetics LK said it had “bold plans” to develop the Prolana product range in 2018 by committing additional resources to research and development. Cosmetics LK is an e-commerce retailer …
Agrial, the agri-food co-operative, is to acquire the Brittany-based charcuterie firm Tallec, according to a report in Les Echos. Headquarterted in Bannalec, Tallec manufactures traditional ham, terrines and pate, generating €37 million ($44 million) in annual revenue. It operates from two factories and employs around 200 staff. Commenting on the move, Agrial corporate relations director Michel Marielle said: “Our aim is to form a charcuterie division made up of family firms with premium …
The Danish arm of Scandinavian FMCG firm Orkla has announced the sale of its K Salat prepared salads brand to deli foods maker Stryhns, part of the Norwegian Agra group, for an undisclosed sum. Orkla described the move as being part of an effort to concentrate its activities on fewer categories. K-Salat has a product portfolio of salad spreads, mayonnaise, remoulade, dressings and potato salads. Under the agreement, Stryhns will …
Milestone Brands, a US spirits brand created in 2016, has announced the acquisition of the rights to the Naranja liqueur brand from Pura Vida Spirits. Naranja is an orange liqueur described as having being distilled in Mexico since 1933. Milestone Brands said it intended to relaunch the brand in January 2018, with production to be handled by La Madrilena, a Mexican corporation and brand owner of Controy, original creators of …
Warpaint London, a UK cosmetics manufacturer and owner of the W7 brand, is set to acquire rival Retra Holdings after raising £21.2 million ($28.0 million) in new investment. Retra Holdings owns the Technic, Body Collection and Man’s Stuff brands and generated revenue of £17.5 million ($23.05 million) in 2016. The firm focuses on the ‘gifting’ sector, primarily selling its products through high-street retailers and supermarket chains including Boots, Asda and Matalan. …
Heritage Foods, the Indian dairy firm, is stepping up its presence in northern India with the acquisition of milk processor Vanam Foods. Mohali, Punjab based Vanam Foods was founded in 2015 and reported turnover of 1,296 lakh INR ($1.98 million) to the year ending 31st March 2017. Heritage Foods has been stepping up its presence in the dairy space following its exit from the retail and bakery business as the result …
HAK, a Dutch manufacturer of preserved vegetables and fruit, is bolstering its position on the German market with the majority acquisition of food distributor Foodeko. According to a report in Levensmiddelenkrant, HAK’s parent company Neerlands Glorie Groente en Fruit has taken a 51% stake in Foodeko to form a new joint venture called HAK-Foodeko. The owners of the new business reportedly have plans to expand the business and double its turnover …
Beechdean, a UK ice cream maker, has acquired the outstanding shares in fellow ice cream firm Lovingtons for an undisclosed sum. Beechdean already held 50% of Lovingtons through a deal transacted in May. Lovingtons is a manufacturer of ice creams that are sold through foodservice channels, to ice cream parlours and to the retail trade via wholesalers. Founded in 1997, it is described as “one of the most recognised names in …
Pioneer Foods, a leading South African food manufacturer, has announced that it has agreed a deal whereby it will acquire the outstanding shares in its joint venture with Heinz Foods Proprietary SA, a subsidiary of the US food giant Kraft Heinz, for an undisclosed sum. As a result of the deal, Heinz Foods South Africa will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Pioneer Foods. In addition, Pioneer Foods said it would enter into …
FMCG giant Unilever is selling its Drie Hoek brand of natural household cleaners to the Dutch firm Marcel’s Green Soap, led by former Unilever executive Marcel Belt. Drie Hoek is a traditional ‘green’ soap brand dating back over 100 years and is primarily sold in the Netherlands. Described as being made from plant ingredients such as linseed and rapeseed oil, Drie Hoek cleaners come in liquid and solid forms and …
Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), the leading US dairy co-operative, has announced that it has acquired dairy processor Cumberland Dairy for an undisclosed sum. Located in Bridgeton, NJ, Cumberland Dairy manufactures ultra-pasteurized dairy products including milk, cream, milk cream, dessert mixes and non-dairy creamers. The firm supplies retail chains, convenience stores, wholesale food distributors and restaurants, predominantly on a private label basis but also through its FreshLife brand. Commenting on the news, …
The US arm of FMCG multinational Nestle has announced the acquisition of Chameleon Cold-Brew as part of a strategy to diversify its coffee portfolio. Chameleon Cold Brew is described as premium crafted organic coffee, sourced consciously and sustainably grown. The firm offers ready-to-drink cold-brew, cold-brew concentrate, kegs, cold brew kits and whole bean coffee. The move follows Nestle’s acquisition of speciality coffee roaster Blue Bottle Coffee, which was announced in …
Anglo-Dutch consumer giant Unilever has announced an agreement to acquire the Tazo tea brand from Starbucks for $384 million. According to a company statement, Tazo had sales of $112.5 million in the past year and enjoys a strong position in specialty black, green and herbal teas, as well as liquid concentrates such as chai latte. “With its strong appeal to millennials, Tazo is a perfect strategic fit for our US …
Canadian dairy company Saputo has signed an agreement to acquire US goat’s cheese manufacturer Montchevre. The announcement comes around a week after the firm announced it had agreed to acquire Australian dairy firm Murray Goulburn in a billion-dollar deal. Monthchevre has a facility in Belmont, Wisconsin, with 320 employees involved in the manufacture, marketing and distribution of goat cheese in the USA. Montchevre president Arnaud Solandt commented: “The decision to proceed with the sale …
US food company Hormel has announced the acquisition of the deli meat and salami maker Columbus Manufacturing for approximately $850 million. This purchase positions Hormel Foods “as a total deli solutions provider” enhancing its portfolio of brands such as Hormel, Jennie-O, Applegate, and Di Lusso, the company said in a statement. Columbus is capitalizing on one of the fastest-growing areas in the retail grocery store with premium, authentic and on-trend …
US retail and wholesale firm Supervalu has reached a merger agreement to acquire food retail distribution company Associated Grocers of Florida, for the sum of $180 million. According to Progressive Grocer, the deal will enable Supervalu to expand to new parts of Florida and leverage Associated Grocers of Florida’s large customer base in South Florida, the Caribbean, Central and South America and Asia. Associated Grocers of Florida operates two distribution …
Saputo, a leading global dairy firm, has announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire its Australian counterpart Murray Goulburn for a purchase price of A$1.31 billion ($1.0 billion) on a debt-free basis, subject to shareholder approval and regulatory clearance. Murray Goulburn produces a full range of dairy products, including milk drinks, milk powder, cheese and butter, as well as a range of ingredient and nutritional products, such as infant formula. …
Pennsylvania-based food marketer and manufacturer Utz Quality Foods has announced the acquisition of troubled snack maker Inventure Foods for $165 million. Inventure Foods, the owner of snack brand Boulder Canyon, had previously been attempting to tackle its substantial debt burden by offloading a number of business, including the sale of its frozen business to Oregon Potato Company in September. The residual Inventure Foods business manufactures snacks including potato chips and …
Bega, the Australian dairy firm, is moving into the nut butter category with its acquisition of a Kraft Heinz facility in Victoria. According to the firm, the packaging will be “slightly ‘refreshed’” to feature the Bega logo. “Despite the label change, Bega assures Australians that the Peanut Butter they love is exactly the same… the same ‘never oily, never dry’ recipe, the same taste, made by the same people, at …
Leading Russian food retailer X5 Retail Group has announced plans to sell its Perekrestok Express stores in Moscow and refocus on its other three major store formats. According to the retailer, the smaller format convenience stores will be divested as the company seeks to concentrate its efforts on its Pyaterochka proximity stores, Perekrestok supermarkets and Karusel hypermarkets. Igor Shekhterman, X5 Retail Group CEO, said: “Convenience stores like those that Perekrestok …
India-based tea producer Goodricke has announced the acquisition of the packaged tea division belonging to tobacco firm Godfrey Phillips India. According to India Retailing, the agreement gives Goodricke Group the rights to the trademarks, titles and brands of the Godfrey Phillips tea business including the brands Tea City, Tea City, SC Gold, Symphony, Samovar, SC Premium, Super Cup, Rangoli and Utsav. Goodricke CEO AN Singh said: “This acquisition will bring …
Kraft Heinz, the leading US-based food firm, is to acquire the Cerebos Food & Instant Coffee business from Japanese firm Suntory, according to an article in Retail World. The deal, which excludes the Cerebos Fresh Coffee business, is worth around A$290 million ($227 million) and is expected to be completed in early 2018, subject to regulatory clearance. The Cerebos Food & Instant Coffee units includes leading food brands in Australia and …
Fuchs Gruppe, Germany’s leading manufacturer of herbs and spices, has announced it has acquired Bart Ingredients, the UK’s second largest seasonings maker, for an undisclosed sum. The Dissen-based firm said that acquisition of Bart Ingredients would advance its internationalisation strategy and significantly boost its position on the UK market. Based in Bristol, Bart Ingredients produces a range of spices, seasonings and ingredients, including a range of seasonings under the Levi …
Global confectionery group Ferrero is to acquire Ferrara, the third-largest US non-chocolate confectionery company, for an undisclosed amount. Ferrara produces confectionery products as Trolli gummy sweets, Brachs seasonal sweets, and Black Forest Organics organic fruity sweets. “We are pleased to announce this agreement with Ferrero, which will enable the continued growth and momentum behind our iconic and well-loved brands”, said Ferrara CEO Todd Siwak. “Joining forces with Ferrero gives us …
China Foods, a division of Chinese conglomerate Cofco, has announced that it is to offload its wine and non-beverage business, including the flagship Great Wall brand, in a deal worth 5,069 million HKD ($649.2 million). Explaining the rationale for the decision in a statement, China Foods said: “The wine industry in the PRC has faced increasing competition and is expected to remain in a slow growth rate in the next three …
Hilton Food Group, a UK meat firm, has acquired Icelandic Group’s Seachill unit in a deal worth £80 million ($106 million). Seachill, one of the UK’s leading fresh fish processors, is the owner of The Saucy Fish Co brand and operates two facilities in Grimsby, Humberside employing around 700 staff. The firm markets a range of pre-packed sea food including fishcakes and fish and sauce, as well as a ‘foil bake …
Crop’s, a Belgian producer of fruit, vegetables and ready meals, has acquired the Polish firm Agram for an undisclosed sum, according to a report in Just Food. Agram produces 28,000 tons of vegetables and fruit a year, principally cauliflower, broccoli, onions, strawberries, blueberries and rhubarb. It operates two facilities in Poland and employs around 200 staff. Crop’s, which currently sources 25% of its production from Poland, said the deal would enable …
Coca Cola Amatil (CCA), a leading bottler of Coca-Cola and other soft drinks in the Asia Pacific region, has announced the acquisition of Australian craft brewer Feral Brewing. Based in Perth, Western Australia, Feral Brewing produces a range of bottled craft ales under brand names such as Smoked Porter, Karma Citra and Sly Fox. The product range is distributed across Australia through speciality retailers. Commenting on the move, CCA Alcohol …
Japan-based drinks firm Asahi has announced its intention to sell part or all of its 20% stake in Tsingtao Brewery, the second-largest beer maker in China, for around $1.2 billion. The stake was originally acquired by Asahi in 2009 from Belgium-based beermaker AB InBev for around $666 million. Asahi has been shedding a number of its assets in Asian markets in order to refocus on the growth of its overseas …
Les Grands Chais de France, France’s leading private winemaker, is to acquire German wine group Binderer, according to a report in WeinWirtschaft. The deal is said to include Binderer St. Ursula Weinkellerei and the Hungarian group Danubiana, as well as subsidiaries St Rochusberg Weinhandels, Torre Giacomol and Binderer Wine Select. Binderer markets wines from Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Hungary and the New World and exports to 20 international markets, chiefly Great Britain, …
Hassia, the German mineral water and soft drinks firm, is acquiring the carbonated drink brand Bionade and ice tea brand Ti from current owners Radeberger, according to a report in Handelsblatt. Launched in Germany in the early 1990s, the Bionade brand is now distributed across the country in retail and foodservice channels. Produced with malt and fruit juice through a fermentation process, Bionade drinks are promoted as containing wholly natural ingredients and …
De Kuyper, a Netherlands-based spirits producer, is acquiring the Heering liqueur brand from Danish firm Peter Heering, FoodBev reports. The Heering lineup consists of a cherry and a coffee liqueur that are both promoted for their use in cocktails. Heering Cherry Liqueur has been produced since 1818, while Heering Coffee Liqueur was launched in 2007. Advertised as “the original ‘cherry brandy’ “, Heering Cherry Liqueur is said to be available in …
Cereal and snacks giant Kellogg has announced the acquisition of Chicago Bar Company, the manufacturer of the RXBAR brand of nutrition bars. RXBAR, described as the fastest growing nutrition bar brand in the US, is promoted as a clean-label snack bar made from egg whites, fruit and nuts, containing 12g of protein per serving. 11 different varieties are available, alongside seasonal and time-limited flavours and a newly launched line targeting children. Commenting on the deal, Kellogg …
Coca-Cola, the global soft drinks firm, has announced the acquisition of the Mexican sparkling mineral water brand Topo Chico. The acquisition has been made via the firm’s Venturing & Emerging Brands (VEB) unit, and will integrate Topo Chico into the portfolio of Cola-Cola brands. Topo Chico has been bottled in Cerro del Topo Chico, Monterrery since 1895 and is sold in Northem Mexico and the USA. Matt Hughes, VP of emerging …
FMCG multinational Unilever has announced the acquisition of Brazilian natural and organic food business Mae Terra for an undisclosed amount. Founded in 1979, Mae Terra manufactures organic foods and healthfood products, with a portfolio of more than 120 products including organic cereals, cookies, snacks and culinary products. “Growing at over 30% per year, Mae Terra has a strong brand equity and a clear purpose of making nutritious food accessible to …
Unilever, the global FMCG firm, has announced that it is to buy South Korean skincare and cosmetics firm Carver Korea in a €2.27 billion deal. Founded in 1999, Carver Korea originated as an aesthetics company supplying professional products to beauty salons, and is now said to be the fastest-growing skincare business in South Korea, through sales of its brand AHC. The AHC portfolio includes essences, toners, moisturisers, masks, and sun protection, including …
French multinational Danone has announced an investment in organic frozen baby food start up Yooji, through its investment arm Danone Manifesto Ventures. Founded in September 2012, Yooji is said to be aiming to revolutionise baby food by providing frozen portion-sized products that are sourced from organic farms. The firm’s range is claimed to respond to a growing demand from parents for high-quality healthy baby meals which are easy and convenient, yet remain …
Potato snack company Kettle Foods has completed the acquisition of UK popcorn producer Cornpoppers for an undisclosed sum, according to a FoodBev report. Founded in 1979, Cornpoppers is a family business which supplies branded and private label popcorn products to retailers and wholesalers. Its portfolio comprises three cinema-style popcorns, as well as speciality flavours such as jalapeno, chilli & lemon, and maple syrup. “The acquisition of Cornpoppers is the next exciting …
Global beer giant AB InBev has announced the acquisition of Manly, Australia based craft beer maker 4 Pines Brewery for an undisclosed sum. The purchase will see 4 Pines Brewery join other Australian brands that are under the Carlton & United Breweries umbrella in the country, including Victoria Bitter, Carlton Draught, Pure Blonde and Great Northern. 4 Pines will reportedly continue to operate from its Manly and Brookvale breweries, while …
FMCG multinational Unilever has announced that it will acquire Remgro’s interest in Unilever South Africa, exchanging it for the Unilever South Africa spreads business and a cash transaction. According to Unilever, the company is buying a 25.5% stake from Remgro in Unilever South Africa Holdings (Pty) Ltd in exchange for the Unilever spreads business in Southern Africa and a sum of 4.9 million ZAR ($371 million), which represents a deal …
Mexican beverage company FEMSA has announced the sale of a 5.24% stake in beer firm Heineken. According to Heineken, FEMSA has divested 22,485,00 shares in Heineken NV, which represents 3.90% of the issued share capital, at a price of €84.50 ($101.28) per share, and 7,700,00 shares in Heineken Holding NV, representing 2.67% of the issued share capital, at a price of €78 ($93.49) per share. The sale of around €2.5 …
McCall Farms, a US producer of fresh canned vegetables and fruit, has signed an agreement with fruit firm Del Monte Foods to acquire Sager Creek Vegetable Company, according to a report in Food Business News. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The agreement is set to bolster the McCall Farms portfolio with retail and foodservice brands such as Popeye, Veg-all, Princella, Allens, Freshlike and Trappey’s. Woody Swink, co-president …
Premium Brands, a Canadian producer of branded speciality food products, has announced the acquisition of a 100% stake of Ontario-based Leadbetter Foods, a meat products firm. Leadbetter Foods manufactures bacon, fresh and frozen burgers and portion cut steaks which it markets under brands such as Cowboy Burgers and Cowboy Steaks, and has annual revenues of $55 million. The firm operates two production facilities, including a modern 47,000 sq ft custom …
Post, the US breakfast cereal firm, has announced that it is expanding its presence in chilled and frozen foods with the acquisition of Bob Evans Farms for an equity value of approximately $1.5 billion. The firm said the deal would add a highly complementary portfolio of brands to its product range, including a leading brand in refrigerated side dishes. Bob Evans Farms is a leading producer and distributor of refrigerated potato, …
Inventure Foods, the US food manufacturer, has announced the divestment of its frozen division in its latest bid to reduce its debt burden. The firm announced it had entered into a definitive asset purchase agreement for the sale of its frozen business including the Rader Farms and Willamette Valley Fruit Company brands, as well as certain assets, rights and properties related to its frozen fruits, vegetable blends, beverages, and frozen …
Associated British Foods (ABF), the UK manufacturer of bakery, sugar and other grocery products, has unveiled the acquisition of Acetum, described as the leading Italian producer of Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, subject to competition clearance. Announcing the move in its latest trading update, the company said it had “ambitious plans” for the newly acquired firm and its brands. “The acquisition will broaden our international presence in speciality foods”, it said. …
The US arm of FMCG multinational Nestle has announced that it has agreed to acquire Sweet Earth, a plant-based foods manufacturer based in Moss Landing, CA, USA. Launched in 2011, Sweet Earth markets a range of frozen meals, burritos, breakfast sandwiches, and chilled plant-based burgers and proteins are sold in more than 10,000 stores, including independent natural grocers, Whole Foods, Target, Kroger and Walmart. Nestle said the acquisition gave it an …
South African wine and spirits group Distell has announced the sale of wine farms and brands with the aim of doubling revenue and profits by 2021. According to Supermarket & Retailer, Distell CEO Richard Rushton said that the company had already sold the La Bonheur and Stellenzicht wine farms and respective brands, which were part of the Lusan premium wine estate. The move will allow Distell to “redouble our efforts …
The Hut Group, an e-commerce firm specialising in health and lifestyle brands, is continuing is rapid expansion into cosmetics and toiletries with the acquisition of UK spa brand ESPA in a rumoured £100 million ($130 million) deal. ESPA markets a range of skincare and cleansing products for men and women, as well as operating 600 spas across 60 countries. The firm, which is currently under the ownership of private equity …
Casalasco, Italy’s leading grower and processor of tomatoes, has announced that it has acquired the De Rica brand of tomato products from canned foods firm Generale Conserve. Casalasco describes De Rica as a historic Italian brand synonymous with natural, authentic and high quality products. The firm added that the brand’s relaunch by General Conserve at the end of 2013 had boosted its presence in the premium canned vegetable segment both …
Sigma Alimentos, the frozen and refrigerated foods firm, has strengthened its presence in eastern Europe with the acquisition of a further 51% stake in Romanian meat firm Caroli, taking its shareholding in the company to 100%. Caroli is a leading producer of ready-to-eat packaged meats with more than 23 years of operation, marketing products under local brands such as Caroli, Sissi and Primo. The company operates a plant in the …
Eagle Foods, a US manufacturer of snacks and canned milk products, has announced the expansion of its snack range with the acquisition of popcorn maker Popcorn Indiana. Popcorn Indiana is a leading brand in the ready-to-eat popcorn category, with a broad range of “classic” varieties as well as a line of “indulgent” flavours under the Drizzlecorn name. Eagle Foods said Popcorn Indiana would strategically complement Eagle Foods’ GH Cretors brand and private …
Co-operative, the UK retail group, has entered into exclusive talks to acquire the convenience store chain Nisa, according to a BBC report. “We can confirm that we’ve entered into a period of exclusivity with Nisa, which will provide the opportunity for us to carry out more detailed due diligence in the coming weeks”, a Co-operative spokesman is quoted as saying. The ethically-oriented firm is reported to have superseded rival Sainsbury …
Multinational retailer Walmart has announced that it is to launch a service enabling consumers to order products via Google Express, technology giant Google’s e-commerce platform. Writing in the New York Times, Marc Lore, Walmart US president & CEO of e-commerce, said the firm would be working with Google to offer hundreds of thousands of items via Google Assistant, a service that permits ordering use voice recognition technology. “Our new voice shopping …
Ajinomoto, one of Japan’s largest food makers, has signed a deal to fully acquire its partner in Turkey, Kukre Gida, which is the parent company of food brand Kemal Kukrer. Ajinomoto first took a 50% stake in the company in 2013 and has now signed a new deal to acquire the remaining stake for $51.36 million. The firm said it aimed to strengthen its local portfolio for long-term growth. Ajinomoto has been …
Polish retailer Eurocash Group, the largest wholesale FMCG distributor in the country, has sign a letter of intent to acquire the supermarket chain Mila, which has a network of about 190 stores. According to sources, Eurocash is looking to acquire a 100% stake in the retailer’s business and has been granted exclusive talks to complete the transaction by 8th September. Mila currently has 188 supermarkets in Poland. In 2016 the retailer …
Hormel Foods, a US food company based in Austin, TX, has acquired Brazilian meat processor Cidade do Sol for approximately $104 million. According to a company press release, the acquired business will become a part of Hormel Foods’ International business unit, providing an initial entry into the Brazilian market and serving as a platform for future growth in South America. Jim Snee, president and chief executive officer of Hormel Foods said: “Strategic …
Global cigarette manufacturer Japan Tobacco has announced that it is buying Mighty Corp, the number two cigarette company in the Philippines, for 46.8 billion PHP ($936 million). According to executive vice president of Japan Tobacco, Mutsuo Iwai, “This major acquisition in Southeast Asia adds to our recently announced full-scale entry into Indonesia, and will further enhance our business base in the region”. In August, Japan Tobacco announced that it would take a …
Coffee supplier and distributor Farmer Brothers is to acquire all assets of Boyd Coffee Company, a provider of coffee, tea and other beverages, accord to a report in Food Business The purchase consists of up to $42 million in cash and 21,000 shares of a new series of preferred stock, making an estimated total price of $58.6 million. The acquisition is expected to be completed in 12 to 18 months. Founded …
Global food company Flagship Food has acquired the Glutenfreeda brand for an undisclosed amount. The Glutenfreeda range focuses on gluten-free products, including oatmeal, granola, flatbread, tortillas, burritos, sandwich and wraps. As part of the deal Flagship Food will take over operations in Gletenfreeda’s facility in Burlington, WA. Yvonne Gifford, founder and chief executive officer of Glutenfreeda, commented: “We have great products and great customers. What we needed was a great …
B&G Foods has entered into an agreement to acquire snack company Back to Nature Foods for approximately $162.5 million in cash. Back To Nature Foods specializes in ‘better-for-you’ products. Its product range encompasses cereal, biscuits, crackers, nuts and soup Robert C Cantwell, president and chief executive officer of B&G Foods, commented: “We are very pleased to add Back to Nature to the B&G Foods family of brands. Consistent with our …
Royal Cup, an importer and roaster of specialty coffees and teas, has announced the acquisition of Richgood Gourmet, a manufacturer of cold-brew coffee and owner of the Icebox Coffee brand. The founder of Icebox Coffee, Bebe Goodrich, will remain in the company as director of liquid product innovation, leading new product development. Royal Cup’s CEO Bill Smith said: “Combining forces to expand our cold-brew offering and improve our ready-to-drink product mix …
Gallo Winery, a wine, spirits and FAB producer, has announced the acquisition of Germain-Robin, a luxury brandy from California, USA. The deal includes the Germain-Robin brand, inventory of aged and aging brandies and all finished products. Founded by Ansley Coale and Hubert Germain-Robin, Germain-Robin is claimed to have innovated by blending cognac traditions and techniques with California winemaking and premium grapes. Ernest J Gallo, general manager of Gallo’s Spirits said: “We are …
Mars, the global food giant, has announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Preferred Brands, which makes ready-to-heat Indian and Asian foods primarily marketed under the Tasty Bite brand. The Tasty Bite portfolio includes a wide range of vegetarian offerings, including ready meals, meal kits, and organic rice and lentils. While the majority of sales are generated in North America, Preferred Brands also supplies retailers in the UK and Australia and foodservice …
Smithfield Foods, the leading US pork producer, has announced that it has reached a deal to acquire Kansas City Sausage Company, a contract manufacturer of sausages for private label clients. The move follows a 50:50 joint venture signed between the two companies in 2013. Kansas City Sausage Company has operations in Des Moines, IA and Kansas City, MO. In Des Moines, the company produces raw materials for sausage, as well as …
Global beer giant AB InBev has announced that it is merging operations in Russia and Ukraine with Turkish brewer Anadolu Efes. Reuters reports that the two companies are seeking to strengthen their position in a declining beer market, with sales having dipped following increasing regulation and taxes imposed by the Russian government. The announcement of the non-binding agreement follows AB InBev’s acquisition of a 24% stake in Anadolu Efes as …
Minnesota, US based beverage maker Cold Spring Brewing has been acquired by Brynwood Partners, as the private equity firm further expands its portfolio of consumer brands. Founded in 1874, Cold Spring Brewing produces non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages and beer for other companies’ brands and retailer private labels, as well as brewing beer under their own brand. The company employs about 350 workers and records annual sales of more than $60 …
Italian mineral water company Ferrarelle has acquired a 99% stake in Amedei, an artisan chocolate maker. According to sources, the acquisition includes the shares that were bought by the Octupus Europe Limited fund in 2015. Amedei founder Cecilia Tessieri will retain a 1% stake in the business “in order to ensure continuity in the quality and uniqueness of research that has made Amedei a world-renowned brand for its excellence in …
Constellation Brands, the leading wine, beer and spirits firm, has announced the acquisition of Florida-based craft brewer Funky Buddha. Funky Buddha is described as the fastest growing craft brewery in Florida, with brands including Floridian Hefeweizen and Hop Gun IPA. The firm’s 54,000 sq ft brewery has a capacity of 45,000 BBLs, and is said to be South Florida’s largest craft microbrewery by size and volume. Funky Buddha will join Constellation Brands’ Craft & …
Unilever, the FMCG giant, has announced that it is to buy Australian ice cream maker Weis for an undisclosed sum. Weis is described as a second-generation Australian ice cream and frozen dessert manufacturer with a variety of ice cream formats including single bar, multi-pack bars, dairy-free sorbet tubs and frozen yoghurt tubs. Unilever said that these products would continue to be made in the firm’s factory in Toowoomba, Queensland post …
Global tobacco firm, Japan Tobacco has announced the acquisition of kretek cigarette company Karyadibya Mahardhika and its distributor for $677 million, in a deal that will see it buy 100% of the outstanding shares in the Indonesian firm. Japan Tobacco said the acquisition would “give the JT Group immediate scale and presence on a nationwide level in the Indonesian kretek market”. Indonesia is described as the world’s second largest tobacco …
Mumbai-based FMCG company Marico has announced the acquisition of the leading South African hair styling brand Isoplus for about 36 crore INR ($5.6 million). The deal, which includes Isoplus’ manufacturing facilities, working capital and intellectual property rights, was made between the previous owners JM Products and Mary L Harris and Marico’s subsidiary Marico South Africa. The Isoplus brand is claimed to be the market leader in South African’s styling segment …
RP Sanjiv Goenka has announced the acquisition of a 70% stake in Gujarat-based snacks firm Apricot Foods. According to RP Sanjiv Goenka, Apricot Foods’ E-Vita range will enable the firm to move into the mass market savoury snacks space. The deal is described as being part of the company’s strategy to be present in three different FMCG categories. “We have acquired 70% in Apricot Foods which sells e-vita branded snacks …
Japan’s leading brewer Sapporo has acquired US firm Anchor Brewing for $85 million. Described as one of the US’s original craft breweries, Anchor Brewing was founded in San Francisco in 1896 and is now the 22nd largest in the country, according to the Brewers Association, generating $33 million in revenue in 2016. Many of Japan’s leading brewers have been strengthening their hand in overseas markets in recent times. Kirin has …
Grupo Lala, the Mexican dairy company, has announced that it has reached a deal to acquire its Brazilian peer Vigor for an implied value of R$5.725 billion ($1.839 billion). The deal is set to include the acquisition of up to 100% of the shares of Vigor Alimentos SA, as well as up to 100% of the shares in Itambe Alimentos. Founded in 1917, Vigor is described as having 14 production plants, 31 …
Chinese firms Sanyuan, an international dairy company, and Fosun, a global conglomerate and investment company, have announced they are to team up to acquire the French margarine and spreads brand St Hubert from its current shareholders. Established in 1904, St-Hubert is a leading manufacturer of spreads, selling over 35,000 tons per year. It is said to enjoy a leading position in France and Italy and manufactures plant-based yoghurts, drinks, and desserts, in additional to its …
Campari, the Italian wine and spirits firm, has announced that it has reached an agreement to sell the Carolans and Irish Mist liqueur brands to Heaven Hill Brands, America’s largest independent family-owned and operated distilled-spirits company, for $165 million. According to Campari, the sale of 100% of the share capital was made through TJ Carolan & Son Ltd – a wholly owned subsidiary – and the deal includes the sale …
Japanese pharmaceutical company Otsuka Pharmaceutical has announced the acquisition of plant-based food company Daiya Foods for C$405 million ($325 million). Daiya offers “high-quality, unique plant-based nutrition products” that are described as free from seven mayor food allergens, including soy, gluten and dairy. The acquisition, according to an Otsuka spokesman, expands Otsuka’s product portfolio, while helping Daiya to increase its presence throughout North America and beyond. Terry Tierney, CEO of Daiya …
Global beverage giant AB InBev has announced the acquisition of leading organic drink maker Hiball Energy, which produces energy drinks under the Hiball Energy brand and sparkling juices and sparkling waters under the Alta Palla brand. The acquisition, which will expand AB InBev’s presence in the non-alcoholic drinks sector, is aimed at supporting Hiball Energy and its brands through brand-building experience, access to a wholesaler network and operational expertise. Hiball’s energy drinks and sparkling …
Wernsing Food Family, a deli foods manufacturer, is taking a majority interest in fresh fruit firm Fresh Factory, according to a report in Cafe Future.net. Founded in Hamburg in 1997, Fresh Factory is a leading player in the prepared fruit segment in Germany, supplying foodservice, wholesale and retail channels. The firm’s retail line is marketed under the Greenitsch name and is predominantly comprised of ready to eat, chopped fresh fruit …
International seasoning and food firm Ajinomoto has announced the acquisition of French frozen food maker Labeyrie Traiteur Surgeles (LTS) through Ajinomoto’s consolidated subsidiary Ajinomoto Foods Europe for €21 million ($24.1 million). The acquisition, made under an agreement between Ajinomoto and LTS’s parent company Labeyrie Fine Foods, is aimed at enabling Ajinomoto to expand its business platform of frozen foods in France “by combining LTS’s production base and market reach in the home-use …
Schwan’s Company, the US frozen food firm, is stepping up its presence in the pizza space with the acquisition of Better Baked Foods and Drayton Foods, both subsidiaries of NE Foods. The move comes less than two months after the firm reached a deal to acquire pizza firm MaMa Rosa’s. Better Baked Foods makes pizza, French bread pizza and sandwich items for private label customers and foodservice venues, and offers retail brands …
Refresco, an independent bottler of beverages for retailers and manufacturers in Europe and the US, has announced the acquisition of Cott Beverages in an all-cash transaction worth $1.25 billion. Cott Beverages, which generates $1.7 billion in annual revenues, is described as drinks firm Cott’s “traditional beverage manufacturing business”. It is one of the world’s largest producers of non-alcoholic beverages with a portfolio including carbonated soft drinks, shelf stable juice and …
British FMCG and pharmaceutical firm GlaxoSmithKline has announced its intention to sell its Horlicks brand of hot drinks in the UK, together with its MaxiNutrition business. The sale is reportedly part of the company’s strategy of focusing on its pharmaceutical business, which accounts for £16.1 billion ($20.1 billion) in annual sales. Horlicks was originally acquired by GlaxoSmithKline forerunner SmithKline Beecham in 1969. The malted hot drink is available in Light and …
Mexican bakery firm Grupo Bimbo has acquired East Balt Bakeries, a US foodservice supplier of bakery products, for $650 million. With annual sales of over $420 million, East Balt Bakeries is a leading producer of bakery products with a presence across 11 countries in the US, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. “With the entry into eight new countries, this acquisition boosts the company’s vision of expanding our global …
BAT has announced the acquisition, through a subsidiary company, of the remaining 57.8% of Reynolds American Tobacco. The acquisition, which has been approved byh shareholders of both companies, is expected to be completed by the end of the month. On the day if completion, the company will start trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the existing trading symbol BTI. Nicandro Durante, BAT chief executive, commented: “We are delighted …
German snack and food company Intersnack is to acquire the Butterkist popcorn brand from privately owned Tangerine Confectionery via its KP Snacks arm. As part of the deal, Butterkist popcorn manufacture will be transferred to KP Snacks along with 150 employees, while the remaining part of the Tangerine Confectionery business will continue to operate autonomously. Mark Thorpe, CEO of KP Snacks, commented: “I am delighted that we have this opportunity …
McCormick, a US manufacturer of spices, herbs, and flavourings for retail, commercial, and industrial markets has signed an agreement to buy the food division of Reckitt Benckiser (RB), the British multinational consumer goods company, for $4.2 billion. “RB Foods’ focus on creating products with simple, high-quality ingredients makes it a perfect match for McCormick as we continue to capitalize on the growing consumer interest in healthy, flavorful eating,” commented Lawrence …
US-based dairy manufacturer HP Hood has acquired a 360,000 sq ft dairy facility in Batavia from Dairy Farmers of America, the latter having purchased the plant for $60 million from Muller Quaker Dairy when the venture closed in 2015. It is claimed that the total investment will be more than $200 million, including a purchase price of $54 million for the plant. Approximately 230 jobs are expected to be created as a …
Russian retailer O’Key Group has announced a partnership agreement with Familia, a leading ‘off-price’ retailer. According to O’Key Group, as part of the strategic agreement, Familia will open two stores in its hypermarkets in Ekaterinburg and Tyumen by the end of 2017. The agreement is described as being part of a strategic initiative to create a ‘compact hypermarket’, enhancing efficiency by forming partnerships to lease space to partners without lowering the …
Czech beverage manufacturer Kofola Group has announced the acquisition of Polish manufacturer Premium Rosa, aiming to expand its portfolio in the ‘healthy’ foods space. According to Kofola Group, Premium Rosa is a high-potential firm with a double-digit sales growth, positioned in the premium segment, that produces natural products such as syrups, juices and jelly, using traditional and natural recipes. Tomasz Towpik, current owner of Premium Rosa, said: “We are delighted to welcome Kofola …
Uniekaas, a Dutch cheesemaker, has announced that it is to be acquired by DOC Dairy Partners, a subsidiary of German dairy company DMK. The deal includes Uniekaas’s complete maturing, packaging and production facilities in Kaatsheuvel, the Netherlands. Certain activities, such as the brands Tjiezi and Parrano, are excluded from the transaction, however, and will continue under the name Best Cheese Holland. Best Cheese Holland will focus on international markets, especially the USA …
Pernod Ricard, the global wine and spirits firm, has announced the disposal of its Glenvallachie whisky brand to a consortium of Scotch whisky executives through its Chivas Brothers subsidiary. The transaction includes the Glenallachie single malt brand and the MacNair’s and White Heather blended scotch brands, as well as relevant inventories, Pernod Ricard said in a statement, adding that the sale was “in line with Pernod Ricard’s strategy to focus …
UScereal firm Guenther & Son has acquired frozen meal and snack company Les Plats Du Chef . Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Based in Montreal, Les Plats Du Chef operates two facilities in Montreal and Toronto. It produces soups, dips, empanadas, oatmeal and other foods under the Cuisine Adventures brand name. It also manufactures private label products and supp the food service industry under the Thyme & Truffles brand. …
Cerealto, a Spanish food manufacturer, has announced the acquisition of Italian pasta producer Pastificio Mediterranea. As part of the agreement, Cerealto will maintain 100% of the workforce, a total of 63 employees, as well as machinery and production lines at the pastamaker’s facility located in Silvano D’Orba, Alessandria. According to a company press release, Cerealto will also continue using 100% local Italian suppliers. Pastificio Mediterranea is a manufacturer of pasta …
Katjes, a German confectionery firm, has signed an agreement to acquire the Italian business of Swedish sweetmaker Cloetta for 450 million SEK ($53.4 million). Cloetta Italy employs 400 people across its four facilities in Italy and in 2016 had annual sales of 745 million SEK ($879 million). “This is a very good solution for all parties and follows Cloetta’s strategy to focus more on its business in North-Western Europe including …
US food and drink company Campbell Soup has entered into agreement to acquire Pacific Foods for $700 million in cash. Founded in Oregon in 1987, Pacific Food has approximately 540 employees and operates a certified organic plant. Following the acquisition, Pacific Food will become part of Campbell Soup’s Americas Simple Meals and Beverages division. Denise Morrison, Campbell’s president and chief executive officer, commented: “This acquisition is consistent with our purpose, …
Sigma Alimentos, a unit of conglomerate Alfa, has acquired Sociedad Suizo Peruana de Embutidos (Supemsa), a producer of cold meat and dairy products in Peru. Financial terms were not disclosed. Sumpensa operates a cold meat plant in Chancay with 800 employees. In 2016 the company had sales of $54.2 million. The deal will expand the presence of Sigma Alimentos in Central America. The firm had previously enhanced its footprint in …
Dean Foods, one of the American leading food and beverages companies, has acquired Uncle Matt’s Organic, a producer of organic beverages where the financial terms were not disclosed. Founded in 1999, and located in Florida, Uncle Matt’s Organic makes organic fruits and juices, including probiotic-infused juices and fruit-infused waters. After the acquisition, the company will operate as a subsidiary of Dean Foods. “Our mission has always been to produce the …
Zwanenberg, a Netherlands-based food and drink manufacturer, is to buy a plant owned by FMCG multinational Unilever via a new “strategic partnership” announced by the two firms. As a result of the agreement, Zwanenberg said it intended to transfer around 18,000 tonnes of its preserved meat production to the facility in Oss, Netherlands, which manufactures meat, sauce and soup products, by 2019. The firm said that production of preserved meat …
German health and beauty company Beiersdorf has announced plans to build a new headquarters and research centre in Hamburg-Eimsbuttel, Germany. Costing €230 million, the new facility will have a total area of about 100,000 sq m and nearly 3,000 “state-of-the art” workstations. The construction will begin this year and it is scheduled to be completed in 2021, according to company press release. “With the construction of our new headquarters in …
Kraft Heinz, one of the world’s largest food and beverage firms, has announced an agreement to sell its cheese plant located in Campbell, NY, USA to Upstate Niagara, a dairy farmer cooperative. The deal, expected to be completed within the next 30 to 60 days, is said to see employment at the site increase to more than 150 jobs over the coming year. “As a dairy cooperative owned by farm families …
Global beverage giant Diageo has confirmed the acquisition of Casamigos, a “super-premium” tequila brand for $1 billion. Casamiro was founded in 2013, and is described by Diageo as the fastest growing tequila brand in the US, increasinb sales by 54% over the last two years. The transaction, where is expected to close in the second half of 2017, values the company at up to $1 billion. Diageo will pay $700 …
Unilever, the FMCG giant, has announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire Hourglass Cosmetics, a US-based manufacturer of colour cosmetics. Hourglass Cosmetics, which markets eye, lip and facial cosmetics, as well as the skincare brand Equilibrium, was founded in 2004 and promotes itself as being “at the revolutionary intersection of science, beauty and luxury”. The firm is “known for innovation, luxe packaging and exceptional product experience” and “acclaimed …
Cultivate Ventures, the strategic platform of Hain Celestial Group has signed an agreement to acquire bean-based manufacturer Better Bean, for an undisclosed amount. “Better Bean is well suited for the Cultivate Ventures portfolio given our focus on the perimeter of the store with our BluePrint functional beverages, Yves Veggie Cuisine vegetarian offerings and Health Valley refrigerated soup products,” commented on the acquisition Beena Goldenberg, chief executive officer of Cultivate Ventures …
US retail and wholesale firm Supervalu has completed the acquisition of wholesale grocery cooperative Unified Grocers for $390 million. The deal is comprised of $114 million in cash and $276 million for outstanding net debt. Supervalu has annual sales of about $13 billion, while Unified Grocers annual sales are approximately $3.8 billion. Mark Gross, president and chief executive officer of Supervalu commented: “The completion of this transaction is a significant step forward …
L’Oreal, the global personal care giant, has announced that it has signed a contract for the sale of The Body Shop to Brazil-based Natura Cosmeticos. The French firm announced earlier in June that it was in “exclusive discussions” with Natura Cosmeticos over a potential deal, which valued The Body Shop at an enterprise value of €1.0 billion ($1.1 billion). Speculation regarding a possible sale first surfaced in February, although the …
Cereal and snack firm Kellogg’s venture capital fund Eighteen94 Capital has made an investment in plant-based frozen smoothie maker Bright Greens. The $2 million raised is set to be used to scale up the business. Founded in 2015 by Brian Mitchell, Bright Greens aimed to make it more convenient for consumers to get their fruits and vegetables through smoothies that provide “a quick and delicious way of getting healthy fruits …
FMCG giant Nestle has revealed that it is considering the divestment of its confectionery brands in the USA, as part of a “strategic review” in the country. Announcing the move in a statement, the firm said that it would “explore strategic options for its US confectionery business, including a potential sale”, emphasising that the review covered the US market only and adding that it was “fully committed to growing its …
Nurtrinor, a Canada based agri-food cooperative, has acquired a majority stake in cheese specialist Fromagerie Champetre, company based in Repentigny in Canada. The acquisition, according to a company statement, is part of a three-year investment plan to strengthening Nutrinor’s position in the agri-food sector, enabling the cooperative to position itself on the dairy processing market outside the region. With the acquisition, Nutrinor will be able to transform more than 52 million …
US e-commerce giant Amazon has agreed to acquire the retailer Whole Foods Market for $13.7 billion including net debt. The acqusition is the latest in a series of significant moves by Amazon into FMCG retailing, including the opening of its first bricks-and-mortar grocery store in December of last year. According to Food Business News, the stores acquired by Amazon will continue to operate under the Whole Foods Market brand, maintaining …
Danish retailer Dansk Supermarked has reached an agreement to acquire 81 stores from competitor retailer Dagrofa. According to European Supermarket News, Dansk Supermarked aims to convert more than half the acquired stores into Netto outlets, whilst leases on the other stores are set to be offloaded to other retailers. Following the transaction, Dagrofa is set to focus its efforts on its Meny, Spar, Min Kobmand and Let-Kob banners, as well …
Leading wine and spirits firm Pernod Ricard is to take a majority stake in Del Maguey Single Village Mezcal, a producer of artisanal and hand-crafted mezcals. Founded in 1995, Del Maguey Single Village Mezcal produces a range of hand-crafted mezcals from the Oaxaca region of Mexico. “We partnered with Pernod Ricard because they understand and appreciate our mission of preserving the culture of the Zapotec people and protecting the traditional process …
US meat processor Tyson Foods has concluded the acquisition of AdvancePierre for an approximate transaction value of $4.2 billion. With a workforce of 4,500, AdvancePierre makes snacks and ready-to-eat sandwiches, generating revenue of $1.6 billion in 2016. According to Tom Hayes, president and chief executive officer of Tyson Foods, the merger of Tyson and AdvencePierre Foods is expected to generate synergies of about $200 million during the next three years. …
US-based food producer JM Smucker has signed an agreement to acquire oil brand Wesson from Conagra Brands, in an all-cash transaction worth about $285 million. Under the new agreement, Conagra Brands will remain as the producer of the Wesson branded products and provide certain other transition services for up to one year. After this point, production will move into Smucker’s existing oil manufacturing facility in Cincinnati, OH, USA. “By allowing us …
German food manufacturer Dr. Oetker has announced that it is to acquire Mexican-based baking aids and syrup maker Grupo Rexal. “We are delighted to be able to strengthen our market presence in Mexico by taking over a successful family business,” commented on the acquisition Richard Oetker, Dr. Oetker CEO. “Grupo Rexal’s products ideally complement our portfolio and, particularly in the field of baking, fit both our strategy and our core …
US frozen food maker Schwan’s Company has agreed to acquire pizza maker MaMa Rosa’s for an undisclosed amount. MaMa Rosa’s produces and sells refrigerated pizzas under the MaMa Rosa’s and Fight’n Tomato Pizza Co. brands, and operates a 160,000 sq ft facility in Sidney, OH “We are extremely excited to have MaMa Rosa’s join the Schwan’s family of businesses based on their reputation in our industry for delivering great quality …
Mexican bakery firm Grupo Bimbo has acquired a 65% stake in the Indian company Ready Roti for an undisclosed amount. The New Delhi-based maker of bread, pizza bases, as well as sweet and savoury buns, operates four plants, generating annual sales of around $48 million. “This acquisition represents Grupo Bimbo’s entry to the Indian market, strengthening its presence in emerging markets, in line with its vision”, Grupo Bimbo said. Grupo …
Lactalis, the French dairy multinational, has secured an agreement to acquire German dairy producer Omira. Omira, one of the largest dairies in southern Germany, produces 830 million kilograms of milk per year. It produces UHT milk and dairy-based desserts, as well as lactose-free products under the Minus L brand, in its two facilities in Neuberg and Ravensburg. According to sources, Lactalis will guarantee milk prices for Omira’s 2,600 suppliers for …
Anatolia, a Turkish wholesale group, is set to acquire UK dried fruit brand Whitworths for an undisclosed sum, according to a report in FoodBev. Whitworths markets preserved fruit products – including sultanas, raisins, mango and prunes – for both baking and snacking. It also offers cereal-based snack products such as flaxseed crisps and coconut raw bars. The merger is said to provide a platform for long-term growth, combining Whitworths’ capabilites …
FMCG multinational Unilever has announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire personal care and home care brands of Latin American consumer goods firm Quala. With a combined turnover of over $400 million in 2016, Quala’s portfolio includes leading local brands such as haircare and skin cleansing brand Savital/Savile, male haircare and styling brand eGo, haircare brand Bio-Expert, oral care brand Fortident and fabric conditioner brand Aromatel. Unilever’s CEO …
Dabur South Africa, a subsidiary of FMCG manufacturer Dabur, has announced the acquisition of hair care brand Long and Lasting by acquiring both manufacturer and distributor in a deal reportedly worth around 25 crore INR ($3.9 million). Long and Lasting is manufactured in South Africa by D&A Cosmetics, while the distributor of the product is Atlanta Body & Health Products. Both companies sell mid-range products across the South African market. …
Orkla Food Ingredients, the company supplier of branded consumer goods and concept solutions to the grocery sector, has announced the acquisition of an 80% stake of SR Food through its subsidiary Dragsbaek A/S. With the acquisition, Orkla is aiming to strengthen its position as a supplier of organic and vegetarian foods. SR Food is a privately-owned company established in 2003. It has a wide range of products including fresh doughs, tapas …
South African wine and spirits group Distell has announced a partnership with the Cruz Vodka business worldwide, purchasing a 75% stake in the brand from Blue Sky Brand Company (BSBC). Financial terms were not disclosed. Commenting on the investment, Distell said: “The transaction strengthens Distell’s portfolio in the premium vodka category, one of the fastest growing spirits categories in South Africa and which is expected to continue exhibiting strong growth …
Twinsaver Group, a leading manufacturer and distributor of tissue paper products in South Africa, has acquired Sylko, a manufacturer of paper and related products such as aluminum foil, and disposable household products such as plastic tableware. The investment follows the group’s acquisition of hygienic disposable products manufacturer Validus Medical and a 580 million ZAR ($43 million) investment to improve Twinsaver Group’s production capacity. Twinsaver Group CEO Garth Towell said: “It …
Leading Italian dairy company Granarolo has acquired a 50.01% stake in Quality Brands International (QBI) , a Greek distributor of European dairy products that closed 2016 with a turnover of €20.2 million ($22.2 million). Granarolo said the acquisition would enable the group to consolidate its operations in Greece, a market into which it has been selling for over 10 years through QBI. Granarolo is currently said to be the leading …
Cerealto, the multinational food company, has signed an agreement with Grupo Siro to acquire two factories from the Spanish group. The two facilities acquired by Cerealto are a bakery in Burgos and a sliced bread facility in Malaga. The deal is in addition to the recent acquisition of a biscuit factory in Portugal as part of the firm’s expansion plans in southern Europe. Cerealto manufactures bakery products including biscuits, cereal bars, pasta, …
AB InBev, the global beer leader, has added to its business unit The High End with the acquisition of Wicked Weed, one of the leading producers of barrel-aged sour and wild beers in the southeastern United States. Based in Asheville, North Carolina, Wicked Weed Brewing was founded in 2012, since when the brewery has created over 500 different beers. “Our ability to create a wide range of really well executed …
Portuguese retail and telecoms conglomerate Sonae has announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire organic supermarket chain Brio. Brio is now 100% owned by Sonae through an acquisition agreement concluded between Sonae MC and The Edge Group, which has owned the chain since 2010. Brio operates six stores across Lisbon, each store entirely focused in organic food. Luís Moutinho, CEO of Sonae MC said: “This expansion of Sonae …
Tyson Foods, a US-based multinational food manufacturer, has announced plans to sell three non-protein business as part of its strategy to focus on protein-packed brands. Last February, Tyson Foods announced its intention to grow its portfolio of protein packed brands and is now planning to sell its Sara Lee Frozen Bakery, Kettle and Van’s businesses. These companies produce frozen desserts, breakfast bars and cereal, waffles, sauces and sides. “Through our ongoing …
FMCG multinational Unilever has announced the purchase of start-up company Sir Kensington’s, a condiment firm based in New York. Sir Kensington’s is described by Unilever as a pioneer and leader in condiments sold in the organic and natural marketplace, producing premium mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise and also a vegan mayonnaise called Fabanaine, made from aquafaba. Kees Kruythoff, President of Unilever North America said: “Sir Kensington’s is an innovative business with outstanding products …
Spanish fashion and perfumes multinational Puig has reached an agreement with Trimex, a subsidiary company of Clarins in Oceania, to strengthen the distribution of Puig’s premium and prestige brands in Australia and New Zealand, according to a report in El Confidencial. With the new partnership agreement, Trimex will now be in charge of providing logistics, commercial services and back-office to Puig in Australia, and will be responsible for the distribution …
FMCG multinational Nestle is currently in negotiations to sell a number of its brands, as well as brands owned by Garoto, according to a report in Valor. The sale is described as a requirement by Brazilian antitrust authorities to approve the merger of Nestle with Garoto, which was first announced in 2004. Valor reports that Brazilian regulators are aiming to reduce Nestle and Garoto’s market share for choocolate in Brazil – …
Weetabix, the largest cereal company in the UK, is to be sold to Post Holdings, the third biggest player in the US cereal market, for $1.8 billion (£1.4 billion), according to reports in the BBC and the Independent. Chinese outfit Bright Food has been the majority owner of Weetabix since 2012, when the company bought a 60% stake in the cereal maker. However, the brand has reportedly unable to make …
Reh Kendermann, the wine firm behind brands such as Black Tower and Kendermanns, has announced that it has acquired the South African firm Napier Winery. In a statement, the German company said that Napier Winery was known for its “outstanding and nuanced” wines, and that the deal would enable Reh Kendermann to “build its expertise in the premium segment”. Napier Winery predominantly produces red wines from its 150 hectare site …
German frozen food company Frosta has announced that it has started conversations to take over certain of Nestle’s frozen food brands in Italy. “Frosta has entered into exclusive contractual negotiations with Nestle. The subject of negotiation is the sales business including the trademark rights for the La Valle Degli Orti, Mare Fresco and Surgela [brands] for the Italian market”, the German group said in statement. Last June, Nestle sold six …
Cerelia, a producer of chilled and frozen dough, has acquired Vancouver, Canada-based English Bay Batter to support its expansion in North America. Founded in 1983, English Bay Batter is a manufacturer of chilled frozen and ready to bake products, including cookies and muffins. Cerelia is a specialist in chilled and frozen home dough including pie dough, pizza dough, pastry dough, cookie dough, crepes, pancakes, pastry sheets and filo pastry, and …
Dutch based retailer Spar has become the third largest grocery retailer of Croatia, after Spar Croatia acquired 62 Billa stores in the country. According to Spar Croatia’s board president Helmut Frenzl, the transition will be completed by the end of the year, whilst the rebranding of stores will take effect by this summer. The rebranding of the stores will represent an investment of €12 million ($12.7 million) for the retailer, …
Svenska Cellulosa Aktiebolaget (SCA), the Swedish manufacturer of paper products, is to split in two. The first of the two new companies will be a forest products company that will retain the SCA name, while the second, called Essity, will be a hygiene and health company. Following the split, Essity will develop, produce and sell personal care and tissue products. According to SCA, the name Essity stems from the words ‘essentials’ and ‘necessities’, …
New Age Beverages, a Colorado-based company manufacturing functional drinks under brands including Aspen Pure, Marley and Bucha, has announced the acquisition of Maverick Brands and its flagship coconut water beverages line Coco-Libre. Promoted as “organic coconut water with a purpose”, Coco-Libre is available in plain and pineapple-flavoured varieties. The lineup also includes protein drinks and sparkling coconut water beverages. New Age Beverages said that the acquisition filled an important gap …
301 INC, the business development and venturing unit of US food firm General Mills, has invested $3 million in Purely Elizabeth, a maker of organic granola, ready-to-eat cereal and oatmeal, according to a report in Food Business News. Founded in 2009, Purely Elizabeth has a portfolio of “innovative and nutrient-rich ingredients” including granola bars, ancient grain granola, probiotic granola, grain-free granola, oatmeal, muesli and cereal. All the firm’s products are …
Nutribolt, a Texas-based maker of sports nutrition products and functional foods, has acquired Scivation, a manufacture and supplies nutritional supplements, where the terms of the agreement were not disclosed. “We are excited to be teaming up with Scivation to bring to market the most comprehensive, innovative and proven line of pre-workout and BCAA products,” commented Nutrabolt CEO Doss Cunningham. Based in North Carolina, Scivation was founded in 2014, and is claimed …
France-based dairy and drinks multinational Danone will sell off its organic yoghurt business Stonyfield to facilitate the $10.4 billion acquisition of organic food producer WhiteWave Foods, according to a report in FoodBev The move to sell Stonyfield came after US anti-trust authorities are believed to have raised concerns about Danone’s future share of the organic dairy market. Stonyfield, which produces organic yoghurts, smoothies, frozen yoghurts and packaged milks, generated about …
Land O’Lakes, a Minnesota-based farmer-owned food and agricultural cooperative, has announced the acquisition of Vermont Creamery, a producer of dairy products. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. “As we experience unprecedented growth, we need a partner who can bring the resources and expertise necessary to help us realize our vision and the potential of our business”, commented Vermont Creamery co-founder Allison Hooper. Vermont Creamery will become an independently …
Consumer goods manufacturer Britannia has announced a partnership agreement with Greek company Chipita to produce and market ready-to-eat croissants in India. According to India Retailing, the new joint venture company, which will have the name Britchip Foods Ltd, will be 60% held by Britannia and 40% held by Chipita. “The company has signed a joint venture agreement with Chipita SA, a Greek company for the purpose of developing, producing and selling …
The South African arm of the multinational brewer Heineken has acquired Stellenbrau, a craft beer producer, for an undisclosed amount. Established five years ago, Stellenbrau has a portfolio that includes four signature beers: Craven Craft Lager, Jonker’s Weiss, Alumni Ale and Governor’s Red Rooibos Lager. Heineken South Africa MD Ruud van den Eijnden commented “Stellenbrau was a natural fit, as it is what Heineken was 150 years ago, sharing the …
Brandt, the German crispbread firm, is to acquire the Austrian brand Feldbacher as it bids to expand its presence in Europe, the Westfalen Post reports. Feldbacher is the number one Austrian brand of crispbread and was first produced in 1922. It is currently owned by Bahlsen, the leading German manufacturer of biscuits, snacks and other baked goods. The deal is described as forming part of Brandt’s strategy to boost revenues …
Italian dairy company Granarolo has acquired a 60% stake in Allfood, one of the leading importers and distributors of European food in Brazil. The deal represents the second deal concluded by the Italian group in Brazil in the last two years, following its acquisition of a 60% stake in the cheese producer Yema in 2015. With the Allfood stake, Granarolo said it aimed to strengthen its presence in Brazil through synergies …
German retailer Aldi Sud has shown an interest in acquiring Italian discounter Tuodi, which has reportedly been suffering financial problems since 2013 and is now up for sale, according to a report in Milano Finanza. Tuodi is said to have announced itsdecision to sell the business after failing to recover from losses of €33.7 million ($36.4 million) in 2013 and €47.8 million ($51.6 million) in 2014. Aldi is said to be …
US-based food company Inventure Foods has announced the strategic sale of Fresh Frozen Foods to Pictsweet , a family-owned grower and processor of frozen vegetables, for a cash transition of about $23.7 million. According to a company statement, the sale of Fresh Frozen Foods is part of Inventure Foods’ strategy to reduce debt and improve its balance sheet and overall financial flexibility. Terry McDaniel, chief executive officer of Inventure Foods, …
Unilever, the Anglo-Dutch consumer goods giant, is contemplating the sale of its margarine and spreads division, including brands such as Flora, Bertolli and Stock, according to reports in the British media. In an article, the Telegraph suggests that a number of suitors, including Kraft Heinz as well as private equity firms, would be willing to pay up to £6 billion ($7.48 billion) to acquire the division, which generates around £480 …
North American packaged foods company Conagra Brandas has agreed to buy Thanasi Foods, a US snacks producer. Protein-based snacking company Thanasi Foods is the manufacturer of snack brands including like Duke’s for meat snacks and Bigs for seed snacks. The Duke’s brand includes Duke’s Smoked Shorty and Duke’s Steak Strips, both “made in small batches with quality ingredients and authentic hardwood smoke pairings”, according to a company statement. “This is …
Fazer, the bakery and confectionery producer, has announced that it has acquired fellow Finnish firm Bioferme, a specialist in the manufacture of oat-based foods. Established in 1977, Bioferme owns the established Yosa brand in Finland. Its portfolio consists of fermented oat products, including a range of non-dairy yoghurts, as well as recently-introduced cooking products. Fazer said that acquiring Bioferme would give it a “strong start” in the “rapidly growing” segment …
The Spanish firm Corporation Exea Empresarial, the holding company of the Puig family, has announced the acquisition of a majority stake in the Greek company Apivita Cosmetics, according to a report in Cosmetics Business. Exea owns the Puig fragrances and fashion group; Flamagas, a manufacturer and distributor of stationery, electronics and lighters; and Isdin, a skin care products manufacturer. Apivita Cosmetics was founded in 1979 and now has a presence in 15 …
Italian confectionery giant Ferrero has announced the acquisition of US chocolate brand manufacturer Fannie May for $115 million in cash. Fannie May’s products, which include brands like Fannie May and Harry London, are mainly distributed through the e-commerce site 1-800 Flowers.com. “Fannie May represents a strong strategic and cultural fit for Ferrero and we are happy that Fannie May’s talented people, premium brand and quality products will become part of …
Nestle, the food and drink multinational, and soft drink giants Coca-Cola have agreed to end their Nestea iced tea joint venture after 16 years, with the firms now seeking to follow different strategies in the ready-to-drink tea category. In 2001, Coca-Cola and Nestle joined forces to create Beverage Partners Worldwide, a beverage venture offering Nestea ready-to-drink tea in Canada and Europe. From January 2018, Coca-Cola will keep the license to …
301 INC, the business development and venturing unit of US food firm General Mills, has invested a non-disclosed amount in D’s Naturals, a low-sugar, plant based products company founded in 2015. D’s Natural is a firm that markets products that are soy, sugar and dairy free and contain bioengineered ingredients. Its portfolio includes No Cow Bar Snack Bars and Fluffbutter Protein Infused Peanut Spreads. Taking its name from the address …
JBS USA, a subsidiary of the Brazilian meat-packer and food processor JBS, has agreed to acquired Plumrose USA, a US based ham and deli meat business, for $230 million from Danish Crown, a leading pork exporter and processor. The agreement includes five prepared food plants located in Indiana, Iowa (2), Mississippi and Vermont, and two distribution centres in Indiana and Mississippi. The new acquisition is described as part of JBS’ …
Canadian dairy manufacturers Lait Kaiser and Cult Yogourt have agreed to acquire Chagnon Dairy, an independent creamery and milk brand in Quebec, Canada. Chagnon produces over 4 million litres of fluid milk, butter, ice cream and other dairy products. The acquisition of a 30,000 sq ft food creamery will help Lait Kaiser and Cul Yogourt to strengthen manufacturing and innovate in the dairy industry, according to claims. “Lait Kaiser and …
German household and personal care giant Henkel, has announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire haircare firm Nattura Laboratorios and associated companies in the USA, Colombia and Spain. Headquartered in Guadalajara, Mexico, Nattura Laboratorios is primarily a manufacturer of professional haircare products, but is also active in the retail space through the styling brands Moco De Gorila, Funk and Punky Junky and shampoo and conditioner brand NatturaLabs Linea …
Food and soft drinks giant PepsiCo has reportedly opened negotiations to acquire Vigor, a Brazilian dairy company owned by J&F group. According to Valor, PepsiCo has made two proposals to acquire the dairy company but up to this moment there was no consensus on the value of the transaction. The last value offered was reportedly approximately R$6 billion ($1.91 billion), which is equivalent to one year of Vigor’s revenues. Industry …
Amira Nature Foods, an Indian manufacturer of basmati rice and related products, has announced the acquisition of several speciality rice brands in Germany. The portfolio includes brands that have mainly been sold in ethnic channels and include Al Amir, Al Hakim, Bano, Dalia, Hanna and Shah Pari. “The addition of these specialty, packaged rice brands to our existing portfolio will help us strengthen our presence in the key markets of …
Grupo Bimbo, one of the world’s leading bakery firms, has reached an agreement to acquire Panattiere, a frozen bakery firm based in Colombia. Established in 2015, Panattiere specializes in pre-baked and frozen baked products, including baguettes, ciabatta, puff pastry, croissant, soft bread, sandwich rolls and muffins. Daniel Servitje, Grupo Bimbo chairman and chief executive officer, said the acquisition of Panettiere would “enable us to participate in the in-store and food service …
Parmalat, the Italian dairy firm owned by the Lactalis group, has announced the acquisition, through its subsidiary La Vaquita Holding, of a number of Chilean companies specialised in the production of cheese. According to company press release, four cheese facilities were acquired for about € 100 million (£ 86 million), where the full amount was financed with the company’s own resources. With the new acquisition, Parmalat said to aimed to strengthen …
Henkell, the German wine and spirits producer, has announced that it has acquired the rights to Managaroca Batida De Coco and other brands from Mangaroca International, a Swiss firm specialised in Brazilian-style spirits. Managaroca Batida De Coco is described as a coconut milk liqueur with a unique flavour, made according to an original Brazilian recipe. Containing 16% abv, it is recommended to be served over ice as well as in …
Canadian consumer packaged meats company Maple Leaf Foods has announced the acquisition of Lightlife Foods, a US company producing of vegetarian and vegan meat substitutes, for $140 million and related costs. Lightlife manufactures over 30 products in its facility in Massachusetts including plant-based tempeh, hot dogs, breakfast food and burgers. In 2016, the company reported sales of approximately $40 million with a US market share of 38% . “The acquisition of …
Bonduelle, the leading global vegetable firm, has announced that it has executed an agreement to acquire Ready Pac Foods, the US market leader in single serve salad bowls. Based in California, Ready Pac Foods markets the Bistro Bowl line of ready-to-eat salad bowls as well as the Elevate line of “nutritent dense” superfood salads and the Ready Snax line of chilled snack foods. The firm has four production facilities located …
Pizza manufacturer Palermo Villa has acquired Connie’s Naturals, a US frozen pizza company, according to an article in Food Business News. The agreement does not include the Connie’s chain restaurants which is located throughout the state of Illinois. As a result of the acquisition, Connie’s frozen pizza will become part of the Palermo portfolio of brands such as Palermos’s Pizza, P’mos, Screamin’ Sicilian and Unban Pie Pizza Co, which also produces …
Kraft Heinz, one of the world’s largest food and beverage firms, has decided to step back after FMCG giant Unilever rejected its merger offer on Friday. The takeover, that would have created the second largest FMCG multinational in the world Nestle, has been “amicably withdrawn”, according to a joint statement between the two companies. According to the same statement: “Unilever and Kraft Heinz hold each other in high regard. Kraft …
Spanish department store El Corte Ingles is planning to join its department stores with Hipercor hypermarkets with the aim of reorganizing its commercial offer and achieving synergies. The merger, that according to sources is at an advanced stage, aims to reduce costs by reorganising spaces and by sharing, for instance, distribution centres. Although they share spaces, both businesses compete and operate under different corporate and business units, causing duplication. One of …
US natural and organic products company Hain Celestial has agreed to acquire UK soup manufacturer Yorkshire Provender for an undisclosed sum. Yorkshire Provender is based in the UK and produces branded soups, which are sold in leading retailers, on-the-go food outlets and food service providers. The acquisition will allow Hain Celestial, which also operates in North America and India, to extend its portfolio of products in Europe. “Yorkshire Provender has a …
Kraft Heinz, one of the world’s largest food and beverage firms, has offered $143 billion deal to merge with Anglo-Dutch FMCG multinational Unilever. Unilever has reportedly rejected the deal, saying that the offer of $50 per share undervalued the company. A Kraft Heinz spokesman is meanwhile reported as saying: “We look forwards to working to reach agreement on the terms of a transaction”. According to recently-released financial statement, Kraft Heinz reported net sales …
Multinational Dutch brewer Heineken has agreed to acquire Brasil Kirin, one of the largest beer and soft drinks producers in Brazil, in a €665 million ($702 million) deal. As a result of the acquisition, Heineken said it would extend its footprint in Brazil, increasing its brand portfolio and becoming the second largest beer company in the country. Commenting on the deal, Heineken chairman and CEO Jean-Francois Van Boxmeer said: “This transaction …
Australian brewer Broo has announced the acquisition of Victorian beer company Mildura Brewery. Established in 2004, Mildura Brewery has a core range of six beers and a pub at its Victorian brewery. According to Inside FMCG, the investment of A$1 million ($768,600) will allow Mildura to expand its product range as well as giving it the capacity to distribute nationally. “The acquisition provides Broo with an exciting extension of our existing …
Texas-based Hiland Dairy plans on acquiring plants belonging to Brookshire Grocery, a Texas-based grocery chain, for an undisclosed amount. The acquisition is set to expand Hiland Dairy’s footprint and is due to close next month. Hiland Dairy produces dairy and milk products as well as distributing dairy foods and other beverages across the United States. The deal will see it acquire dairy and water-based ice cream manufacturing plants belonging to Brookshire Grocery. Brookshire Grocery is …
Carlsberg, the Danish brewer, is said to be weighing up a move for Asahi’s stake in Chinese beermaker Tsingtao, according to a Bloomberg report quoting “people familiar with the matter”. Asahi, the leading Japanese beer producer, acquired its 20% stake in Tsingtao in 2009. Bloomberg estimates the value of the stake to be around S1.2 billion. Tsingtao, China’s second biggest domestic beer producer, faces stiff competition from major players such …
Irish based snacks firm Tayto has acquired the Tavern Snacks brand and the majority of Portlebay Popcorn for undisclosed amounts, according to a report in the Irish Times. The acquisition will see Tayto take 75 per cent ownership of Portlebay Popcorn and full ownership of Tavern Snacks. Devon-based Portlebay Popcorn manufactures popcorn products with a focus on gourmet flavours and supplies retail stores around England. Tavern Snacks manufactures and sells snack foods such as …
L’Oreal, the global cosmetics giant, is contemplating the sale of its The Body Shop business for around €1 billion ($1.1 billion), according to sources quoted in the Financial Times. The company is said to be considering the possibility in light of worsening operating losses at the ethical business, which are described as increasing to €22.2 million ($23.7 million) in the first half of last year from €7.2 million ($7.7 million) …
Global nutrition firm Glanbia has announced its expansion in the supplements space with the acquisition of US firm Amazing Grass and Dutch firm Body & Fit. Glanbia said it was investing approximately €181 million to buy the two businesses, which it described as “having a strong strategic fit with Glanbia’s Performance Nutrition (GPN) division” and as allowing it to “extend its reach to new consumers and channels”. Amazing Grass has …
Australia based cereal and snacks producer Freedom Foods Group has announced a new strategic partnership with Seamild Group in China, a manufacturer of oat based cereal and foods. As a result of the deal, cereal products into China will have tariffs on imported products under the China Australia Free Trade Agreement reduced to zero over the remaining 3 year period. Under the new partnership, the range of Seamild branded oat …
Irish based dairy group Ornua has agreed to acquire FJ Need for an undisclosed amount . British based FJ Need supplies Irish and British cheese and cheese ingredients to the food manufacturing and foodservice sectors. Ornua is considered Ireland’s largest exporter of Irish dairy products with brands such as Kerrygold, Beo Milk and Pilgrims choice. The firm said it had been investing in Africa, China, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Spain, the UK and the …
Rapunzel Naturkost, the German natural and organic foods firm, has announced that it is acquiring Zwergenwiese, a producer of organic vegetarian spreads, sauces and other products. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Founded over 30 years ago and located in Legau (Bavaria), Germany, Zwergenwiese produces a range of over 100 organic vegetarian foods, including meat substitutes, dairy alternative cheese, savoury spreads, mustard, tomato sauces and fruit spreads. It employs …
Italian spirits company Gruppo Campari has announced the acquisition of Bulldog London Dry Gin, an independently owned brand, for $55 million (€50.9 million) plus working capital and assumed liabilities for $3.4 million. Campari has been distributing the premium gin since 2014 through its own distribution channels as part of a five-year agreement, with the option of acquisition of the brand in 2020. With the new deal the firm will take …
Tuatara Brewing Company, a New Zealand has been acquired by Heineken-owned DB Breweries. Tuatara will continue to product its beer at its current facilities and other beers. Tuatara brewing was established in the year of 2000 based in Paraparaumu, and grew from a small operation to one of the larges craft breweries in New Zealand. The company has spent the last two years focusing on innovation and increasing brewing capacity to break …
British consumer goods multinational, Reckitt Benckiser is said to be in advanced negotiation to take over US infant formula Mead Johnson in a $16.7 billion deal, according to a report in Reuters. Infant nutrition company Mead Johnson is known for its Enfamil brand and is considered to bethe world’s number two infant formula maker with a large presence in China, Latin America as well as the United States. The company also owns …
Advent International, a large global private equity investor, has announced that Sovos Brands, a new food and beverage company, has completed the acquisition of Michael Angelo’s Gourmet Food, a frozen Italian food firm. Michael Angelo’s Gourmet Foods, described as a family-owned and operated business with a passion for quality and talent for making authentic Italian prepared meals, is the first investment by Sovos Brands, which has the stated intention of looking to …
A number of leading firms in the global breakfast foods market are eying up British cereal maker Weetabix, according to a report in The Telegraph. Oriental FMCG giant Bright Foods bought a majority stake in Weetabix in 2012, but so far the UK’s second biggest cereal brand has failed to conquer the Chinese market, the report continues. The company has reportedly hired banking firm Goldman Sachs to advise it as …
Mondelez International, the global food giant, has announced that it has reached an agreement to sell most of its grocery brands in Australia and New Zealand to dairy firm Bega Cheese. The deal, which excludes the Philadelphia cream cheese business, is valued at A$460 million ($345 million). Included in the sale are brands such as Vegemite, ZoOsh, Bonox, as well as other products that use the Kraft brand under license, …
Spanish manufacturer Ebro Foods has announced that it is pushing further into the natural and organic space with the acquisition of the Italian food and drinks firm Vegetalia for €15 million ($16 million). Founded by Salvador Sala Druguet in 1986, Vegetalia is engaged in the preparation and distribution of a broad range of organic food products and is described by Ebro Foods as a pioneer in the manufacturing of vegetable protein. It …
Shiseido, the Japanese cosmetics giant, has announced the acquisition of MatchCo, a US-based firm that creates custom foundation shades based on the customer’s individual skin tone, through its regional headquarters and consolidated subsidiary Shiseido Americas. The firm said that the synergy of MatchCo’s innovative digital tools and its own R&D capabilities would help to enhance a business model that captures the major consumer trend of cosmetics customization. Founded in 2013, MatchCo lets customers scan …
German cheese maker Hochland has bought 100% of the shares in Franklin Foods and its sister companies, according to a press release. Franklin Foods, a US cream cheese producer described as one of the fastest growing cheese companies in the country, said it would maintain its operational independency as a subsidiary of Hochland SE. Franklin Foods’ strong manufacturing and sales platform in the US cream cheese market would complement Hochland’s …
Clover Industries, the South African food and dairy firm, has agreed to acquire 51% of the shares of olive oil producer Olive Pride, according to a report in Bizcommunity. Clover Industries is acquiring the stake from AECI Holding subsidiary Southern Canned Products (SCP), which will retain 49% of the business. According to reports, the transaction means Clover Industries will now be in charge merchandising, sales, marketing & distribution services for …
Eighteen94 Capital, the venture capital fund established last year by cereal and snack firm Kellogg, has unveiled its first major investment with the acquisition of a stake in US-based moringa firm Kuli Kuli for $4.25 million. Based in Oakland, CA Kuli Kuli produces moringa-based food and drinks that are promoted as “a good source of iron, calcium, vitamin A, and other nutrients”. Commenting on the move, Eighteen94 Capital managing director …
US spirit maker Beach Whiskey has bought American Harvest organic vodka from import firm Sidney Frank, according to a report in FoodBev. Financial details were not disclosed. American Harvest vodka is described as being handcrafted in small batches from American wheat and distilled with certified organic ingredients. It is further described as a smooth spirit with a crisp, clean & slightly sweet hint of real agave. Commenting on the move, …
Sodalis, a leading Italian player in the personal, beauty and home care space, has announced the acquisition of household and healthcare business BrandCare from Portuguese investment fund Explorer Investments. BrandCare is an Iberian company that was formed in December 2013 as the result of the acquisition of a number of assets from Colgate-Palmolive. In Spain, its principal products are Cristasol window cleaner, Xanpa household detergent and Tacto hand soap, while in …
Coty, the global beauty and personal care firm, has announced that it has entered into a partnership with Younique, a social selling platform for beauty products, that will see it take a 60% stake in the firm. Founded in 2012 in the USA, Younique is described as offering a range of makeup and skin care products that are sold through a peer-to-peer e-commerce platform, using a community of independent presenters to …
Valeant, a Canada-based multinational pharmaceutical company, is to sell the CeraVe, AcneFree and Ambi skincare brands to L’Oréal for $1.3 billion in cash. The CeraVe brand lineup includes cleansers and moisturisers for hand, face and body, as well as baby toiletries, and is based on ceramides, cholesterol and fatty esters delivered through a controlled-release system. The AcneFree range consists of lotions, wipes and other topical anti-acne products, while the Ambi line includes …
Gavea Investimentos, a Brazilian investment fund, has received approval from regulatory authorities to take a 49.9% stake in fruit juice firm Natural One, according to a Reuters report quoting a dispatch from the Diario Oficial da Uniao. It had previously been reported that major global firms including Coca-Cola, Ambev and Britvic were vying to buy into the natural tea and juice producer. As a result of the transaction, Natural One founder …
It has been announced that California-based fresh goat milk firm Jackson-Mitchell is to be acquired by Swiss dairy company Emmi, in a move that will further the latter’s interest in what describes as “an attractive market”. Jackson-Mitchell produces Meyenberg branded products, including what is claimed to be the only nationally distributed fluid goat milk in the USA, and generates annual sales of nearly $30 million. Commenting on the deal, Emmi …
Pharmaceutical and consumer products manufacturer Hypermarcas has announced the sale of its disposable hygiene products business that includes nappies for babies and sanitary products for adults. Ontex Group, an international manufacturer of personal hygiene products, has acquired the business for R$1 billion ($312 million), according to a report in Supermercado Moderno. The divested business includes nappy brands Pom Pom, Cremer and Sapeka, as well as the adult sanitary brand Bigfral, …
Glansaol, a newly-formed beauty and personal care company, has announced the acquisition of the cosmetic brands Laura Geller, Julep and Clark’s Botanicals for undisclosed amounts. The acquisition of Laura Geller is said to have already been completed while the other two deals are expected to close shortly. Laura Geller is known as a pioneer of the “baked” category of makeup as well as dual-purpose products intended to simplify and improve …
US snack producer J&J Snack Foods has announced that it is to acquire Hill & Valley Premium Bakery, a cakes and biscuits manufacturer based in Rock Island, IL. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Founded in 1987 and with sales of over $45 million annually, Hill & Valley Premium Bakery is a manufacturer of pre-baked cakes, cookies, pies, muffins and other desserts, specialising in no sugar and no added …
Global soft drinks giant Britvic has decided to acquire Brazilian juice company Bela Ischia for £54.5 million ($66.9 million) in order to expand its presence in Latin America. The deal is set to conclude at the latest by the end of March of this year. Bela Ischia produces and sells RTD juices, frozen fruit, liquid concentrates and powder concentrates. Its products are principally available in the regions of Rio de …
US based Natural American Foods, a portfolio company of private equity firm Peak Rock Capital, has acquired Sweet Harvest Foods for an undisclosed amount, according to an article in Food Business News. Sweet Harvest Foods produces and distributes honey under the MEL-O brand as well as peanut butter under the PB Crave brand and syrup, honey and peanut butter products under its private label brand. Natural American Foods produces agave …
Groupe Duc, a French processor and marketer of chicken and turkey products, is to be acquired by Dutch poultry firm Plukon, according to a report in Ouest-France. Groupe Duc, which is France’s fourth largest poultry processor, has over 900 staff and operates a turkey facility in Riec-sur-Belon (Finistere), as well as chicken rearing and production sites in Gouaix, Chailley, Charolles, Crest, Montmeyran and Saint-Bauzely. The firm’s product lines include raw chicken …
US-based Craft Brew Alliance is to purchase 24.5% of Florida’s Wynwood Brewing for an undisclosed amount, with the deal expected to conclude by the first quarter of 2017, according to a report in Brewbound. It is reported that the deal will allow Wynwood Brewing to expand by utilising resources from the larger Craft Brew Alliance, while allowing the latter to tap into the Florida market. Craft Brew Alliance is considered …
FMCG giant Unilever has announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire haircare specialist Living Proof for an undisclosed sum. Describing Living Proof as an “innovative premium hair care business renowned for solving hair problems through the use of breakthrough science”, Unilever said that the firm would be added to its own Prestige portfolio, which includes brands such as Dermalogica, Kate Somerville, Murad and REN. Living Proof is described as having …
South African investment fund Public Investment Corporation (PIC) has agreed to purchase world leading brewer AB InBev’s entire indirect stake in alcoholic drinks firm Distell. The stake comprises 58,000,000 shares or 26.4% of the company, which would go to PIC for an undisclosed amount. The sale of the stake was a condition of regulatory approval in South Africa for AB InBev’s takeover of rival brewer SABMiller. Distell is a multinational …
SC Johnson, the US household and personal care firm, is to acquire insect repellent brand Exposis and assets under the Lysoform brand as it looks to strengthen its position in Brazil. Insect repellent brand Exposis is available exclusively over the counter in pharmacies throughout Brazil. It uses Picaridin as the active ingredient to repel mosquitoes and other insects. Meanwhile, certain assets under the Lysoform brand are also being acquired by SC …
Swedish retail and wholesale food business Axfood is to expand into the online shopping sector with the $59.6 million acquisition of Mat.se, Operated by Matse Holdings, Mat.se is an online supermarket offering bakery products, flowers, beverages, and other grocery items. The company also offers a food delivery service under its Cold Cargo brand as well as cooking and recipe sites under the Kokaihop and Spisa names. Axfood is a food …
Having received federal approval, global beer giant AB InBev has been given the green light to acquire Texas-based craft brewer Karbach Brewing for an undisclosed amount. The deal, being transacted through the firm’s craft and import division The High End, is expected to close early next year, according to a report in Brewbound. Karbach Brewing is described one of the USA’s fastest growing brands of craft beer, and there are …
Patties Foods, an Australian pie and pastry firm owned by Pacific Equity Partners, is to acquire New Zealand based convenience food manufacturer Food Partners, according to an article in the National Business Review. Food Partners, which trades as Leader Products, produces a range of frozen meat-based products for both retail and foodservice channels, including chicken and beef burgers and patties, finger food such as hotdogs, chicken goujons and meatballs, and “meal …
Vestey Holdings, a firm specialised in the sourcing, processing and distribution of chilled, ambient and frozen products, has acquired food manufacturer Cottage Delight via its subsidiary Fine Foods Group for an undisclosed amount. Cottage Delight started out as a fudge manufacturer and currently produces and sells around 700 different items including fudge, jams, chutneys, sauces and baked goods. The company is also established as a supplier to such retailers as …
Harvest Hill , a majority-owned portfolio company of Brynwood Partners, has agreed to acquire the Nutrament brand from Nestle, according to a report in Food Business News. Through the acquisition, the Harvest Hill portfolio is set to expand into the functional drinks space. The firm’s line up already includes fruit drinks under the brands Little Hug, Big Hug, Guzzler and Big Burst, as well as the cocktail and mixer brand Dailys, and …
Multinational food group Wessanen is set to acquire Biogran, described as the leading manufacturer and distributor of organic brands in Spain, from private-equity firm Nazca Capital for $67 million. The acquisition will aid Wessanen in expanding its reach and solidifying its hold over the organic food market around Europe, the firm said. Biogran produces food and dietary supplements under such brands as El Granero – the leading organic brand in …
US-based snack company NightFood is reporting that it has reached a definitive acquisition agreement for Hook Marketing and Fiber One branded ice cream producer and distributor Suffield Foods. Hook Marketing was granted a license by General Mills to produce Fiber One probiotic ice cream, launched in April, operating through its subsidiary Suffield Foods. NightFood produces snack bars such as Midnight Chocolate Crunch and Cookies & Dreams, and aims “to help …
US-based consumer goods firm B&G Foods is adding to its portfolio, having agreed to acquire Victoria Fine Foods for $70 million. Post acquisition, B&G projects that the Victoria brand, once integrated, will generate $41 million in sales. Brooklyn, USA based Victoria Foods offers pastas and speciality sauces, condiments and spreads under the Victoria brand. Victoria sauces are described as being slow kettle-cooked in small batches, using traditional cooking methods, to …
Canadian speciality foods firm Premium Brands has announced an expansion in bakery, pasta and deli foods with the acquisition of Island City Baking, Conte Foods and Larosa Fine Foods. Located in Richmond, BC, Canada, Island City Baking is a manufacturer of fresh and frozen artisan bread, including sandwich loaves, rolls, rye and sourdough loaves, ciabatta and baguettes, and rustic loaves. Conte Foods is a distributor of speciality food products, including goods …
Remy Cointreau, the French alcoholic drinks firm, has announced that it has agreed to acquire US whiskey manufacturer Westland Distillery. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Based in Seattle, WA, Westland Distillery is described as producing whiskey with a distinctly American single malt style. The firm’s portfolio of single malts, including Westland Single Malt Whiskey, Westland Peated Single Malt Whiskey, Westland Sherry Wood Single Malt Whiskey and Westland Garryana …
Dutch brewer Bavaria has acquired US based Latis Imports, an importer of Belgian specialty craft beers, according to a report in Brewbound. Latis Imports, co-founded by David Van Wees, currently imports Boon, Palm, Rodenbach and Steenbrugge beers and is set to expand its portfolio to include Bavaria brands. Bavaria had previously purchased 60% of Palm Belgian Brewers earlier this year and plans to fully absorb the company by 2021. The …
Leading US poultry firm Pilgrim’s Pride has announced a definitive agreement to acquire GNP Company, a provider of branded chicken products in the Upper Midwest region of the USA, in an all cash, $350 million transaction. GNP Company has production facilities in Cold Spring and Luverne, MN, and Arcadia, WI, approximately 400 farm partners and more than 1,700 staffs. GNP Company’s products, including fresh chicken, meatballs and sasuage, are distributed …
Indian rice specialist LT Foods and Japanese rice-based snack firm Kameda Seika have announced the launch of joint venture to sell rice based snacks in India, according to the Economic Times. The new 51:49 joint venture is described as being backed by a $10 million investment and is designed help the companies enter a new category of snacks, as “consumers are looking for healthier snacking options and there are limited …
Italian food manufacturer Granarolo has expanded in the ‘free from’ space with the acquisition of bakery firm Pandea Dietetica and a 30% stake in cheese snack firm San Lucio. Operating in Parma since 1946, Pandea Dietitica registered turnover of €12.9 million ($13.7 million) in 2015, of which 66% was derived from conventional baked goods including crackers and breadsticks, and the remainder from specialty gluten-free products. San Lucio, meanwhile, owns the Groksi brand …
Beauty Elite, a firm active in the haircare and pet care sectors, has expanded its portfolio by acquiring Fuel Hair for an undisclosed amount. Fuel Hair was founded in 2014 and is described as producing salon-quality products for consumers to use at home. The company’s products range from liquids, powders and aerosols to tools such as cutting shears. Beauty Elite distributes niche beauty brands ranging from hair care to pet …
Campari, the Italian wine and spirits firm, has announced its exit from the Italian still wine business with an agreement for the sale of 100% of the share capital of Sella & Mosca and Teruzzi & Puthod to wine seller and distributor Terra Moretti. Based in Sardinia, Sella & Mosca is one of the largest wine estates in Europe with 550 hectares of vineyards, producing red wines such as Marchese di Villamarina, …
Meat and packaged foods firm Hormel has announced the sale of its Clougherty Packing business to Smithfield Foods, the world’s largest pork producer. Clougherty Packing is the parent company of Farmer John and Saag’s Specialty Meats, whose brand lines include products such as ham, bacon, sausages and lunch meat as well as raw cuts of meat. The deal, which was transacted for $145 million in cash, also includes Hormel’s PFFJ farm operations …
Soft drinks giant Dr Pepper Snapple has announced that it is purchasing Bai Brands, a company that manufactures low-calorie coffee-fruit drinks, for $1.7 billion. The Bai Brands product line includes enhanced water, carbonated flavoured water, coconut water and ready-to-drink teas. With its Bai, Bai Bubbles, Cocofusion and other innovative brands, Bai was positioned for expanding growth in key beverage segments, Dr Pepper Snapple said. Bai Brands provides a strong platform …
German meat firm Tonnies is looking to acquire its northern German rival Dollinghareico, according to a report in Agrarheute. Dollinghareico produces a range of meat products under the Dolling, Hareico and Landhof Lubz brands, specialising in meat and poultry salami as well as fresh and canned sausages. The firm is reported to have struggled over recent years with difficult market conditions and strong competition. In a letter to staff, former …
Brazilian company Grupo Petropolis, owner of the beer brand Itaipava, is among the firms to have declared an interest in acquiring the assets of alcoholic drinks firm Brasil Kirin, according to a report in Supermercado Moderno quoting O Estado de Sao Paulo. It is reported that Grupo Petropolis has organised visits to three of Brasil Kirin’s plants – Alagoinhas (Bahia), Itu (Sao Paulo) and Igrejinha (Rio Grande do Sul) – …
Accolade Wines, one of the world’s largest wine companies, is to acquire Fine Wine Partners (FWP) in Australia for an undisclosed sum. In a press release, Lion, the Australian alcoholic drinks, soft drinks and dairy firm that owns Fine Wine Partners, described it as “a quality fine wine business offering exposure to the attractive and growing premium wine segment in desirable viticultural regions”. “However, following a comprehensive strategic review it …
Thailand’s CP Foods has announced the acquisition of the US-based frozen food producer Bellisio for $1.075 billion. The transaction is expected to close in December 2016. Bellisio is the third largest manufacturer and distributor of single-serve frozen foods in the US and markets its products under brands such as Atkins, Boston Market, Chili’s, EatingWell and Michelina. Its product line of more than 400 items includes single and multi-serve entrees, snacks, …
International seasoning and food firm Ajinomoto has announced it will acquire Turkish food manufacturer Orgen, including the Bizim Mutfak brand, to strengthen and expand its business in Turkey. Ajinomoto is set to acquire all outstanding shares for 220 million TRY ($66.2 million) by March 2017, including the four main business sectors of stock, powder soup, cooking sauce and powder desserts, all of which come under the Bizim Mutfak brand. Orgen is …
Minerva, one of the principle meat manufacturers in South America, has announced the acquisition of Frisa Frigorifico, a leading Brazilian beef products company. Frisa Frigorifico operates abattoirs in Colatina (ES), Nanuque (MG) and Teixeira de Freitas (BA), as well as a distribution centre in Niteroi (RJ). The purchase represents an investment in the order of R$205 million ($59 million) for Minerva, which is looking to consolidate its position in South …
Estee Lauder, the-US based cosmetics firm, has announced that it is to buy make-up brand Too Faced in a deal worth approximately $1.45 billion. Launched in 1998, Too Faced is described as offering “an unabashedly empowering line of cosmetic products for the eyes, face and lips” and as being “beloved for its high-quality, innovative formulas, irreverent product names and distinctive packaging”. Estee Lauder notes that the firm, which is expected …
Greencore, the Irish manufacturer of own label and licensed food products, has announced the proposed acquisition of US frozen sandwich maker Peacock Foods for $747.5 million. Peacock Foods is a manufacturer within the retail food industry, specialising in ambient, chilled and frozen food products with multiple facilities around the US. Greencore also produces sandwich products for the US market, mainly distributing through cafes and convenience stores such as 7 Eleven …
Kraft Heinz, the US-based multinational is to sell its drinks, bread toppings and breakfast cereal facility in Utrecht to the investment fund Livia via its portfolio company Coflace Food. Livia said that the basic agreement would include a co-pack agreement for Coflace Food to manufacture goods for brand lines such as Rosvicee and Karan Cevitam drinks, De Ruijter and Venz chocolate sprinkles, as well as Brinta breakfast cereals on behalf of …
Italian cheese manufacturer Sabelli has acquired a stake of 79% in mozzarella maker Trevisanalat, according to reports in ESM and Repubblica. The majority stake was purchased from the Alto Parnters private equity fund for an undisclosed amount. Trevisanalat produces mozzarella in factories in Italy and Slovenia, marketing goods under brands such as Trevisanalat, Bianca Bella, Biancamore, Buonsapore, Campesina, Deiprai and ProntiBianchi Via. The company, which has annual turnover approaching €50 …
Investment firm Highlander Partners has announced the acquisition of sugar confectionery firm Hillside Candy for an undisclosed amount. Hillside manufactures and markets organic, sugar-free confectionery products under the GoOrganic, GoLightly, Pick Your Color and Hillside Sweets brands. The product line predominantly consists of hard sweets but also includes fruit chews under the GoOrganic name. Products are sold direct and through distributors to grocery and pharmacy chains, mass merchandisers, club stores, …
Atlanta, USA based food distributor Diaz Foods has announced its acquisition of the Frutel brand from Origin Foods. Frutel is a yoghurt drink blended with whey protein and is available in flavours such as strawberry, banana, peach and mango. It claims to offer a natural energy boost and markets itself as a healthy treat, containing 2.5g of fat and 23g of sugar. Commenting on the deal, Diaz Foods CFO Eric …
Gores Holdings, a special purpose acquisition company, has announced that it has completed its acquisition of bakery firm Hostess Brands for approximately $522 million in cash. The deal sees Gore Holdings take a majority stake in the company, with previous majority owners Apollo Global Management and C Dean Metropolous retaining a 42% minority interest. Hostess Brands, which produces cake and bread products under brands such as Honey Buns, Ding Dongs …
US food manufacturer Lancaster Colony has announced a new move to bolster its presence in bakery with the acquisition of Angelic Bakehouse. The Ohio-based company said that its wholly owned subsidiary T Marzetti had entered into a definitive agreement for the sprouted grain bread firm, which manufactures products such as bread, bread crisps, crusts, wraps, buns and rolls using a “proprietary sprouting process using seven whole grains (non-GMO) including red wheat …
Brynwood Partners, the investment group that owns the Juicy Juice brand, has announced that its majority-owned portfolio company Harvest Hill has acquired the beverage manufacturing assets of Faribault Foods, a producer of pulses, canned foods and snacks and part of the La Costena group. Faribault Foods’ beverage assets include a manufacturing plant in Elk River, MN, USA, which serves as the leading private label supplier and contract manufacturer of pouch products …
Hangzhou Wahaha, China’s largest beverage producer, has shown interest in a potential takeover of Dean Foods, the largest milk processor in the US, according to a Financial Times article quoting “four people familiar with the company’s plan”. The Chinese firm has reportedly approached a number of banks to seek financial backing for a possible move. Hangzhou Wahaha produces bottled water, milk and tea drinks and reported $7.4 billion in sales …
French spirits firm Remy-Cointreau has announced that it has entered into exclusive negotiations to acquire Domaine des Hautes Glaces, a distiller of single malt whiskies, with a view to acquiring its entire share capital. Created in 2009, Domaine des Hautes Glaces produces single malt whiskies from the Trieves Mountains, an area located in the French Alps at an altitude of 900m altitude. Certified organic, the firm’s whiskies are said to adhere to the …
Yili, China’s leading dairy company, has purchased a 37% stake in rival dairy firm Shengmu for $680 million, according to a report in Bloomberg. Shengmu, which specialises in organic milks and yoghurts, is the only Chinese dairy company to sell and produce organic milk which is certified European-standard, Bloomberg reports. It claims to have a 54.2% market share in China based on 2013 organic raw milk production volume. They are …
Gay Lea Foods, a Canadian dairy co-operative has decided to acquire fellow Canadian dairy firm Stirling Creamery for an undisclosed amount. In a press release, Gay Lea Foods stated that the purchase is aimed to build upon its existing butter operations in Ontario as well as create long-term growth for the Canadian dairy industry. Stirling Creamery is known for its range of flavoured butters encompassing Churn 84 and the Stirling …
PepsiCo, the global soft drinks and snacks firm, is showing interest in making a deal to acquire US probiotics drinks firm KeVita, according to a report in Reuters quoting “people familiar with the matter”. Any deal would reportedly be through PepsiCo’s Naked Emerging Brands venture, the objective of which is described as expanding the company’s soft drinks portfolio through developing brands positioned towards health-conscious consumers. A deal for KeVita would …
The Canadian wine business of US-based international beer, wine and spirits producer and distributor Constellation Brands is to be acquired by institutional investor Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan for approximately C$1.03 billion ($782.5 million). Operating in the US, Canada, Mexico, New Zealand and Italy, Constellation Brands is described as the market leader in Canada with almost three times the market share of its second competitor and 7 of the top 20 …
Kirin, the Japanese brewery firm, has announced that it has bought a minority share of 24.5% in the US based Brooklyn Brewery as a first step towards a business partnership between both companies. Under the partnership, Kirin said it planned to further energize the craft beer market in Japan and Brazil while supporting the growth of the Brooklyn Brewery through technological and procurement assistance. Both companies plan to establish the …
Kellogg, the US-based cereal and snack firm, has announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire Ritmo Investimentos, the controlling shareholder of Brazilian company Parati Group, which manufactures biscuits, powdered beverage & pasta brands. According to the company, the acquisition is the company’s largest in Latin America to date and a step in the company’s strategy to become a global snacking powerhouse, expanding its presence in emerging markets. “With …
Remy Cointreau, the global wine and spirits firm, has joined forces with Dutch spirits business Bols to develop the Passoa brand internationally, the two companies have announced. The new joint venture will operate and further develop the global activities of the Passoa brand, Remy Cointreau and Bols said, with the former contributing the full Passoa activities, including distribution, manufacturing, trademarks and inventory, and Bols contributing both its know-how and expertise in the liqueur …
Premium Brands, a Canadian producer, marketer and distributor of branded food products, is acquiring Ontario-based meat firm Belmont Meats for C$49.2 million ($37.1 million) in cash and C$800,000 ($604,000) in common shares of Premium Brands, according to a report in Food Business News. Belmont, which reports annual sales of approximately C$120 million ($91 million), produces burger patties as well a variety of customized burgers for retail and foodservice customers across Canada, …
Japanese beverage giant Asahi is set to table a bid in the order of ¥500 billion ($4.87 billion) to acquire brewer SABMiller’s assets in eastern Europe, according to reports in Nikkei and Beverage Daily. The brands to be sold include Pilsner Urquell in Czech Republic, Tyskie and Lech in Poland, Dreher in Hungary, Topvar in Slovakia and Ursus in Romania. In April 2016, Asahi also agreed a deal to purchase …
Global confectionery giant Mars plans to buy out investment firm Berkshire Hathaway in order to obtain full control over the gum business Wrigley, the company has announced. Once the buyout has been completed, the new firm will be known as Mars Wrigley Confectionery and will hold chocolate brands such as Snickers, Galaxy and Maltesers as well as mint and gum brands Extra, Orbit and Doublemint. With full control of Wrigley, …
Dressing and seasonings giant Kewpie is to acquire Polish food maker Mosso Kwasniewscy, according to Japanese media reports. As a result of the acquisition, the firm will now be called Mosso Kewpie Poland, a name that is currently undergoing registration. Mosso Kwasniewscy is reportedly the fourth leading player in the mayonnaise industry in Poland, and also produces table sauces such as ketchup and mustard as well as preserved vegetables and oils. …
Jewellery company Origami Owl has decided to expand into the beauty sector by purchasing New York, US beauty firm Willagirl for an undisclosed amount, according to an article in Cosmetics Business. Willagirl focuses on non-harmful and natural skincare and beauty products, including cleansers, exfoliators, moisturisers, facial oils and suncare products, as well as face and eye cosmetics, that are claimed to be free from parabens and phthalates. The company was …
Rhodes Food Group, the South African food firm, intends to acquire 100% of instant food maker Pakco for shares valued at $14.6 million, according to a report in Business Day Live. Rhodes Food Group is a food manufacturing company with brands such as Bull Brand, Bisto, Magpie and Squish and is active in categories including canned meat, pies and fruit puree drinks. The acquisition of Pakco will reportedly give Rhodes …
UTZ , the US’s largest privately held snack food company, has announced that it has completed the acquisition of rival snack firm Golden Enterprises. Golden Enterprises produces and markets snack products such as crips, tortilla chips, corn chips, fried pork skins, baked and fried cheese curls, onion rings, and puff corn snacks in the US, operating two manufacturing facilities – one in Birmingham, AL and the other in Ocala, FL. It also sells canned …
Canadian fruit juice company Jusu Juice Bar has announced the acquisition of Alberta-based Cru Juice. Cru Juice focuses on cold-pressed juice that combines raw ingredients with ‘superfoods’ including chia and chlorella. Blends include green apple, cucumber, celery, green kale, parsley, lemon and ginger with chlorella, and almonds, cashews, hemp seeds, medjool dates, maple syrup, vanilla bean and cinnamon with sea salt Jusu Bar was founded in British Columbia and produces …