FRANCE – LDC, a leading poultry group, in France, is in exclusive negotiations to acquire Groupe Routhiau, a family-owned meat and plant-based business located in Saint-Fulgent, western France.
While the financial details of the deal have not been disclosed, the proposed acquisition is subject to approval from local competition officials.
Groupe Routhiau, operational for nearly 50 years, reported a turnover of €72 million (US$78.3 million) in 2022, with EBITDA reaching €5.5 million.
Groupe Routhiau employs 360 people and specializes in the production of fresh and frozen products, including cooked meats like duck and chicken, beef carpaccio, plant-based ready meals, and traditional French desserts.
The company serves both retail and foodservice channels and offers private label products under brands such as Jean Routhiau, Tendance Créative, Les Trois d’Asie, and Végétal.
The production facilities are located in Saint-Fulgent, Chanverrie, and Chateaugiron.
In contrast, LDC, with a presence in France, Poland, Hungary, Belgium, and the UK, posted robust financials for the fiscal year ending February 2023.
The company reported a revenue of €5.8 billion, marking a notable 15.3% increase, while EBITDA reached €547.4 million, reflecting a 37% rise.
The proposed acquisition aligns with LDC’s strategic goal of expanding its product ranges and achieving synergies in logistics and purchasing.
The deal is expected to broaden LDC’s offerings in the dynamic meat and plant-based segments, aligning with changing consumer preferences.
LDC also highlighted its commitment to retaining all employees at Groupe Routhiau post-transaction.
This move comes as part of LDC’s broader expansion strategy, which includes the acquisition of Indykpol, a Polish turkey producer, and the recent purchase of the Les Délices de Saint Léonard factory in Morbihan, France, from the Agromousquetaires Group.
As LDC continues to strengthen its position in the poultry and meat segments, the proposed acquisition of Groupe Routhiau underscored the company’s commitment to meet evolving market demands, enhancing its product portfolio, and pursuing strategic growth opportunities.
The completion of the deal remains contingent on regulatory approval.
Liked this article? Subscribe to Food Business Africa News, our regular email newsletters with the latest news insights from Africa and the World’s food and agro industry. HERE
