Belgian fresh food company Ter Beke has said it is examining the potential acquisition of the chilled pasta meal division of French food group Agis, and has signed a letter of intent regarding the purchase.

Agis’ chilled pasta meal division recorded a turnover of €11m (US$12.9m) in 2002 and has production facilities in Alby-sur-Cheran. Ter beke, which makes chilled pasta ready meals and processed meats, said the division would fit in with its international ready meal strategy.

Ter Beke and Agis both intend to finalise the due diligence process and arrive at a final closing of the deal by early July 2003, reported Dow Jones International News.