NETHERLANDS — Specialist provider for the global bakery, patisserie and chocolate market, the Puratos Group has acquired European supplier of edible seeds Schobbers for an undisclosed sum.
Founded more than 75 years ago, Schobbers has built a broad portfolio of seeds, kernels, flakes, ancient grains, and grits sourced from all over the world.
The products are cleaned, checked, roasted, and packed within Schobbers’ dedicated facilities in Venlo, the Netherlands before being supplied to bakeries, confectioners, and snack makers.
Puratos said that the acquisition is in line with its health and well-being, an important aspect of the group’s sustainability strategy and a cornerstone of its future growth.
“Welcoming the Schobbers team to the Puratos family reflects our commitment to improving consumer health and well-being, as well as delivering superior-tasting solutions to bakers,” Puratos said in a statement.
“We know that combining our respective strengths and values will create even more passion and innovation than before. And we’re already aligned on all things flexibility, quality and transparency.”
Bernard Bonjean, business category manager, grains and seeds, at Puratos believes that the coupling of Schobbers’ heritage, passion and specialism with Puratos’ market reach and innovation power has benefits for both companies as well as their customers.
“We’re very excited about how the synergies between Puratos and Schobbers will unlock further growth and value for our customers and — ultimately — consumers,” Bonjean said.
“Critically, with direct access to these important raw materials and better control over their supply chain, we’re also improving the sustainability credentials of these ingredients at Puratos.”
Following the acquisition, the Dutch company will operate under the name Puratos Schobbers from its current base in Venlo.
Not only will its products be more widely available, but innovation is set to accelerate, thanks to the additional NPD resources and expertise of its new owner.
“Being part of a larger, like-minded organization ultimately benefits our customers and consumers alike,” Mr. Schobbers said.
“All of us at Schobbers are looking forward to the next stage in our growth as part of Puratos.”
Earlier in July, Puratos teamed with Bakeronline to help bakers increase service to customers while respecting government lockdowns and ongoing social distancing challenges.
Bakeronline is a tool that allows bakeries to create personalised web shops that give consumers an overview of the available products, clear product descriptions, as well as allergen information, and an easyto-use ordering system.
Customers can then make purchases online and choose to have their order delivered or when to collect it.
Just recently, Puratos opened a new innovation hub at its subsidiary in Ethiopia, dedicated to nurturing bakery and pastry creativity in the country.
The Hub, which is the first of its kind for the nation will serve artisans, quick-service restaurants, cafes, hotels, supermarkets, and restaurants with the focus to provide a place to develop creativity and transform concepts into finished foods.
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