Dutch organic food group Wessanen has signed a sales and purchase agreement to acquire French-based organic and fairtrade food firm France Alter Eco.

Wessanen bought the company, for an undisclosed sum, from a group of private investors. The acquisition is expected to close in early June.

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Wessanen CEO Piet Hein Merckens said the firm’s brands, products and philosophy are complementary to those of its French business.

“After having taken Clipper on board early 2012, this acquisition will be another milestone in the execution of our strategy of strengthening our European leadership in organic food,” said Merckens.

On completion of the deal, France Alter Eco will become part of Distriborg, the French-based operations of Wessanen.

Paris-based France Alter Eco produces organic and fair trade products including chocolate, coffee, tea and juices, for the grocery, independent and out-of-home channels. The company generated revenues of EUR16.5m in 2012.

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