Europe Snacks, a French firm that specialises in producing savoury snacks for third-party brands, has acquired British premium crisp maker Burts for an undisclosed sum.
The company stated that its acquisition of Burts Snacks was part of its strategy to accelerate its growth in the UK, which is Europe’s largest snacking market.
Supported by its private equity owner Apax Partners, Europe Snacks entered the UK market with the acquisition of Kolak Snack Foods in 2016. The company noted that the acquisition of Burts, which is set to be finalised next month, was a further step in expanding the group’s presence in the market with a “highly complementary” product portfolio.
The combination of the two companies is expected to unlock growth through a wider offer of snacking lines and product innovation. Europe Snacks and Burts will be combining their manufacturing and supply chains with investment to add additional capacity planned.
Burts will continue to operate from its two manufacturing facilities in Plymouth and Leicester, led by current Managing Director, Dave McNulty.
Etienne Lecomte, CEO of Europe Snacks, said: “Within a highly uncertain economic context, it is key to reach a size that allows us to keep investing in our people and in our factories. Thanks to the trust of our shareholders, it has been made possible, and I am very proud to welcome the Burts team to the group.”
Jitu Patel, Chairman of Burts, added: “I have a huge admiration for Europe Snacks: I am convinced this acquisition will open up new opportunities, as both businesses are complementary to each other and share deep common values. It has been an honour to work with the Burts Family over the years, and I would like to take this opportunity to wish the combined company every success in the years ahead.”
NAM Implications:
- A feature of post-lockdown fallout.
- Best anticipate same for rivals and customers.
- And harmonise appropriately…
- …before the market does it for you.
