The German spice producer has purchased 100% of the shares in Bart Ingredients, reportedly the second largest branded herbs and spices company in the UK with sales of £25M, from private equity firm Langholm Capital. Bart employs more than 200 people.
Fuchs said the acquisition was part of its international growth strategy and would significantly enhance its market position in the UK.
Nils Meyer-Pries, ceo of the Fuchs Group, said: “The acquisition of Bart Ingredients complements our existing portfolio of businesses and secures more market coverage in line with our growth strategy.
‘More market coverage’
“In our discussions with Bart Ingredients, it is clear that the philosophies and people of both companies are well-matched.”
Founded in 1963, Bart sources ingredients from across the world. It has a range of up to 100 products, including an expanded range of dry and wet ingredients that are sold directly and in supermarkets.
Langholm acquired the business in 2010, following a management buyout.
David Collard, ceo of Bart Ingredients, said: “We are incredibly proud of the growth we have achieved with Langholm and it made sense to join forces with an international market leader like Fuchs, who can help expand our market coverage and take our business to the next level.”
‘Take our business to the next level’
The sale of Bart Ingredients to Fuchs Group was advised by business consultancy TLT.
Andrew Webber, corporate partner at TLT, added: “Bart Ingredients is a local and national success story in its market and it is important for all companies – particularly food manufacturers and consumer brands – to have the investment they need to develop their business in an evolving market.”
Meanwhile, Hilton Food Group has agreed to buy chilled fish processor Icelandic Seachill, in a deal worth £80.8M, as it looks to expand into the seafood sector.