The former Kerry business will now trade as Pilgrim’s Food Masters, headed by former Kerry Foods chief executive Nick Robinson.
Robinson will continue to lead the group’s 4,500 team members across the UK and Ireland, with plans to accelerate the current growth trajectory.
UK-based
Pilgrim’s Food Masters will remain headquartered in the UK with team members across 11 sites, including facilities in the UK and Ireland and an extensive distribution network in both countries.
Commenting on the launch, Robinson said: “This is the start of an exciting new chapter in our history as we join the Pilgrim’s family and we’re feeling confident and ambitious about what the future holds.
“We have a strong track record in delivering growth and as Pilgrim’s Food Masters we have the foundations of an already highly successful business. As one of the UK and Ireland’s leading food business, we remain committed to the communities and customers that we serve.”
Kerry acquisition
Pilgrim’s Pride announced its acquisition of Kerry Groups consumer meats and meals business in June 2021 with a price tag of £704m. Completion of the sale was announced yesterday (27 September), with Kerry using the funds to continue the development of its taste and nutrition business.
Pilgrim’s Pride chief executive Fabio Sandri added: “We’re delighted to welcome new colleagues into the Pilgrim’s family who share our values and are passionate about sustainable growth.
“With a united vision to be the best and most respected company in our industry, we look forward to unleashing the expertise of the Pilgrim’s Food Masters team as they continue to innovate and create value in this exciting growth sector.”
Meanwhile, AAK, the global fats and oils business, has agreed a deal to purchase BIC Ingredients, the lecithin arm of BIC International Holding.