The second major acquisition by the manufacturer on the continent, Appalaches Nature is a major supplier of maple syrup to European markets and a growing supplier to Canda and the US.
It is also the second Canada-based maple syrup business to be acquired by Valeo Foods, following its purchase of Les Industries Bernard & Fils (Bernard) in 2022.
Valeo’s acquisition included Appalaches’ 100,000 sq. ft. production facility in Thetford Mines, Quebec. The manufacturer planned to integrate the Appalaches business alongside Bernard where synergies permit.
Complimentary manufacturing capabilities
This would include complimentary manufacturing capabilities, which Valeo hoped would support the accelerated growth of the combined business, enable it to significantly increase production capacity to meet growing customer demand and to facilitate further expansion across Europe and internationally.
The day-to-day operations of Appalaches Nature will continue to be led by the existing management team, in close collaboration with the management of Bernard – led by the fifth generation of the Bernard family.
Valeo’s purchase of Appalaches Nature comes three months after its acquisition of leading Italian bakery products manufacturer Dal Colle for an undisclosed fee.
Speaking at the time, Valeo chief executive Ronald Kers said: “Dal Colle is a fantastic addition to the Valeo Foods portfolio which already boasts many of Europe’s finest and most established brands, with deep heritage and connections with consumers.
‘European sweets champion’
“It also adds considerable new manufacturing and logistical capabilities to our Italian platform, which will support our growth ambitions in Italy and across Europe. This is very consistent with our vision to position Valeo Foods as the undisputed European sweet treats champion.”
Meanwhile, Yorkshire-based Regal Food Products Group has announced the acquisition of Love Cheesecakes, its third desserts business since 2022.
Love Cheesecakes appeared on BBC TV show Dragons’ Den in 2020 which helped boost its online profile and has contributed to the growth of its eCommerce platform.
