US – Refresco, a prominent independent beverage solutions provider, has finalized its acquisition of VBC Bottling Company, a contract manufacturer of premium beverages based in the United States.
The move marks a significant step for Refresco in expanding its presence and capabilities in North America, enabling the company to offer enhanced beverage solutions to its customers.
VBC’s well-established customer base, coupled with its strategically located facility and ample warehousing capacity in Modesto, California, will play a crucial role in enhancing Refresco’s service offerings.
The facility boasts over 600,000 square feet of manufacturing and warehouse space, equipped with advanced capabilities for large-scale production, including cold-filled canning, post-pasteurization, and robotic variety packing.
Hans Roelofs, CEO of Refresco, expressed confidence in the acquisition, stating, “Acquiring VBC is another step in executing our proven Buy & Build strategy. The company’s strong customer base, strategically located facility, and warehousing capacity further strengthens our footprint in North America.”
Brad Goist, COO at Refresco North America, emphasized the strategic significance of the acquisition, aligning with Refresco’s vision of expanding its presence in the beverage industry.
He highlighted the integration of VBC Bottling Company into Refresco’s operations as a means to better serve customers and support their growth objectives.
Refresco offers a diverse range of product and packaging options, including juices, carbonated soft drinks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages, in various formats such as cartons, PET bottles, cans, and glass.
This acquisition follows Refresco’s earlier expansion efforts, including the acquisition of Avandis, a manufacturer of alcoholic beverages in the Netherlands, expanding its product offerings in the alcohol category.
In its financial performance for the year 2023, Refresco Group reported an increase in revenue from €5,458 million (US$5.9M) to €5,926 million (US$6.4M), largely driven by increases in input costs passed on to customers.
The company’s gross profit margin increased to €2,879 million (US$3.1M) compared to €2,464 million (US$2.67M) in 2022, attributed to pricing initiatives and acquisitions made throughout the year.
Roelofs acknowledged the challenges faced stating: “2023 was not a year for the faint-hearted, but Refresco triumphed. Pivotal to our success was the steadfast loyalty of our customers, the flexibility and resourcefulness of our suppliers, and the unwavering support of our shareholders. All have enriched our activities with fresh perspectives and opportunities.”
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