M&A was once more a focus on just-food as consolidation of the food sector continued. US natural and organic food group Annie’s was snapped up by General Mills. Through the deal, General Mills hopes to gain access to a high growth area in the US food sector, although there was some concern over the price tag. The ongoing tussle for Chiquita Brands International continued to make headlines, with Chiquita opening up its books to hostile bidders Cutrale Group and Safra Group. And, again in the US, Japanese food maker Ajinomoto entered into a deal to acquire ethnic food group Windsor Quality as part of its drive to become the largest Asian food manufacturer in American freezer aisles.
Here are some of the highlights from the past five days.
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In the spotlight: General Mills turns to M&A to bolster US business
The US accounts for the bulk of General Mills’ business and, with its operations at home under pressure, the food giant has got out the chequebook to snap up local natural and organic food maker Annie’s. But is it the right move? Dean Best investigates.
Timeline: The latest on the battle over Chiquita’s ownership
Chiquita Brands International, which had lined up a merger with fellow banana supplier Fyffes, has become the subject of takeover interest from Brazilian firms Cutrale Group and Safra Group. And that interest is developing into a tussle for the future ownership of the US produce giant. just-food provides a digest of the most significant events so far.
EGYPT: Arla joins race for Arab Dairy Products Co.
Arla Foods has entered the race to buy Egyptian dairy firm Arab Dairy Products Co.
US: Ajinomoto to buy ethnic food group Windsor Quality
Japanese spice maker Ajinomoto Co. is expanding its presence in the US having struck a deal to acquire ethnic food maker Windsor Quality Holdings for around US$800m.
US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?
Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.
By GlobalDataPHILIPPINES: San Miguel confirms eyeing bid for United Biscuits
Philippines food and beverage group San Miguel Corp. is weighing up a bid for UK snacks firm United Biscuits.
Focus: Can Kellogg rejuvenate its US cereal brands?
Over the past ten years, Kellogg has moved to reduce its reliance on the cereal aisle, with the Keebler and Pringes acquisitions opening up the world of snacking. However, with 45% of sales still generated in cereal – and a sizeable bulk of this coming from the US – concern is mounting over the firm’s inability to turn around its fortunes in the market. Katy Askew reports.
US: Child slavery lawsuit against Nestle allowed to proceed
A lawsuit alleging Nestle, Cargill and Archer Daniels Midland “aided and abetted” child slavery in Cote d’Ivoire can proceed after an intervention by an appeals court in the US.
Consuming issues: Elliott puts FSA back in the spotlight
Amid the headlines about the UK’s plan to set up a food crime unit, Professor Chris Elliott’s full report into the UK supply chain has reignited what was a fierce debate – the role of the Food Standards Agency.
CHINA: Taiwan’s Chang Guann oil scandal widens
More than 900 Taiwanese restaurants, bakeries and food processors have been drawn into a scandal involving 243 tonnes of tainted oil products manufactured by supplier Chang Guann Co.
UK: Australia, US to drive ABF FY grocery profit growth
Associated British Foods is set to see a rise in annual operating profit from its grocery business amid improved performances from operations in Australia and the US.
