HJ Heinz Company has signed a definitive agreement to sell its European seafood business to Lehman Brothers Merchant Banking for a price of EUR425m (US$505m).


The transaction itself is subject to customary EU competition review and approval but the companies will seal the deal – first tabled on 1 February 2006 – by the end of March.


Heinz Europe spokesman Michael Mullen told just-food: “This is a major step forward in our plan to focus and simplify the business in three specific areas – these are ketchup and sauces; baby foods; and meals and snacks.”


Mullen also said Heinz Europe workers would be transferred to Lehman Brothers, and their employment is expected to continue as normal. The European Seafood business has approximately 5,000 employees and annual sales of over EUR400m, producing more than 400m cans of seafood products annually.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.