Kepak Group has acquired Valeo Food Group’s Meat Snacks Group Limited for an undisclosed sum as part of its plan to “strengthen its presence” in food-to-go categories.
Trading as New World Foods Europe, the business produces ambient meat snacks and includes the Freshers Foods brand, its associated product lines and Valeo’s two manufacturing sites in Wigan and York are included in the deal.
The New World Foods Europe acquisition adds a range of products to Kepak’s portfolio. These include high-protein ambient snack brands, such as Kings, Wild West and Cruga, which Kepak said “align with growing consumer demand for convenient and nutritious snacking options”.
Brian Farrell, CEO of Kepak Foods Division, commented: “We are delighted to welcome New World Foods Europe into the Kepak Group. This acquisition enhances our capabilities in the ambient snacking category and adds a strong suite of established brands to our portfolio.
“It supports our continued growth in both the UK and international markets, particularly across the convenience and food-to-go channels. It’s very much business as usual for both companies and our partners as we start a phased integration process.”
“Right time” for acquisition, says Valeo
According to Valeo Foods, New World Foods Europe has been consolidating its operational footprint over the last 12 months. It said now was the “right time to support its growth under new ownership”.
Ronald Kers, CEO of Valeo Foods Group, said: “We are confident that Kepak Group is the right partner to lead New World Foods Europe into its next chapter and unlock its full potential. We are pleased that they are transitioning to another outstanding company where they will receive the focus and resources to grow.
“On behalf of Valeo Foods, I want to thank the many employees who supported New World Foods and have contributed to the strength of its brands. We appreciate their passion and commitment to New World Foods Europe and to Valeo Foods Group. These talented individuals are going to a fantastic organisation in Kepak, where they undoubtedly will thrive.”
