Bakkavor buys US prepared food firm

Bakkavor has bought US own-label prepared foods firm B Robert’s Foods in a multi-million pound deal as the UK chilled food firm seeks to boost its business in the region.

B Robert’s, which is based in Charlotte, North Carolina, employs about 240 people and has been producing convenience foods for US retailers for more than 20 years.

It boasts an annual turnover of $30M (£19.7M), was set up in 1992 and its first products included refrigerated casseroles and wet salads.

Latest lines

Its latest lines, launched in 2011, were ready-to-cook meats marinated in custom-designed flavour profiles in horizontal form, fill and seal packages and value-added, ready-to-cook entrées in vacuum skin packaging.

“We are delighted to announce the acquisition of B Robert’s,” said Agust Gudmundsson, ceo of Bakkavor Group in a statement about the deal, the exact terms of which have not been disclosed.

“It is a highly respected company, with a long-standing reputation of providing high quality products with market leading innovation for its customers.

‘Growth opportunities’

“The acquisition reinforces our commitment to seek growth opportunities within the US market and complements our existing operations in California and Pennsylvania. We are excited to be working with the team in Charlotte on the next stage of the development of our business.”

John Gorman, president and ceo of Bakkavor USA,said: “I am delighted that we have found a business that shares our passion for quality and innovation. I look forward to working with our new team in Charlotte and building further on the great business they have created in recent years.”

Bakkavor’s US corporate headquarters are in Carson. It had approximately 350 employees, prior to the B. Robert’s acquisition.