Simplot To Acquire Belgium-Based Clarebout

Simplot Company officials announced over the weekend intensions to acquire the operating business of Clarebout Potatoes headquartered in Belgium.  Simplot says the acquisition brings together two market leaders in the processing and distribution of frozen potato products and related services.  The hope is to have the transaction completed by the end of this year, following regulatory approvals.

Simplot officials say this announcement comes after discussions surrounding the companies’ shared desire to form a strong food foundation capable of meeting the world’s evolving economic, agricultural and environmental demands.

“This is an exciting time for Simplot,” said Graham Dugdale, President of Simplot’s Global Food business. “We are thrilled about the synergy that Clarebout brings to our business, which not only expands our ability to serve the European market but brings together a pair of family-owned companies who align closely in core values and our commitment to customers, employees and the communities where we operate.”

By joining, the two companies will create a frozen potato processing group  to serve customers around the world with localized supply from 23 production locations.

“It’s a coming together of heart and mind. With Simplot, we share the common values of family businesses,” said Jan Clarebout, CEO of Clarebout Potatoes. “Simplot, like Clarebout, started from scratch and managed to grow while remaining faithful to principles as essential as respect for people and the Earth. We could have continued on our own, but the economic reality of the world, and a form of common sense, led us to come together. It’s a choice for the future and a sustainable future.”

Simplot added "the agreement between the two parties provides for the maintenance, and even expansion, of Clarebout Potatoes' assets—staff and production sites—on the European continent".

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com