US investment fund Steel Partners has failed in its JPY32.3bn (US$278m) bid to win control of the Japanese condiments group Bull-Dog Sauce Co. after only winning acceptances for 1.89% of the company’s stock by the close of its tender offer.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more


Steel Partners said it would buy all those shares, which would bring its stake in the company to around 4.44%.


The fund said in a statement that it planned scrutinise Bull-Dog’s business plan and the capital it has spent on anti-takeover measures.


The fund, which has made several attempts to acquire Bull-Dog since 2003, launched its latest takeover bid in May, and it soon became an acrimonious affair.


Earlier this month, Steel Partners decided to slash its bid for Bull-Dog from JPY1,700 a share to JPY425 a share after Japan’s Supreme Court ruled that the company could enact a “poison pill” defence against the hostile takeover.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

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 GlobalData

Just Food Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Food Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving food industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now