Schouten Europe acquires Bobeldijk Food Group
Schouten Europe, the Dutch family-owned company from Giessen and producer of meat alternatives, is acquiring industry peer Bobeldijk Food Group from Deventer. With this acquisition, Schouten is increasing its production capacity and strengthening its position in the European market for plant-based meat and fish alternatives, a market in which the company has been active since 1990.
Strengthening market position
“The market for plant-based products is developing rapidly. With the acquisition of Bobeldijk, we are not only increasing our production capacity, but also strengthening our flexibility and decisiveness towards customers. At the same time, this step gives us the opportunity to continue investing in innovation, something that has characterised our family business since 1893,” says CEO Niek Jan Schouten.
Photo: Niek-Jan Schouten (centre) in the R&D kitchen of Schouten Europe
Pioneer
Schouten is internationally recognized as one of the pioneers of the global meat alternatives market. Founder Henk Schouten was the first Dutch entrepreneur to focus on developing meat alternatives in 1990. For years, the company has marketed one of the world’s most extensive and varied assortments and supplies its products, mainly under private label, in more than 50 countries.
Strong addition
With a strong focus on private label and product development, Bobeldijk Food Group has built a solid position within the European market for meat alternatives in recent years.
“Bobeldijk has extensive knowledge, experience and craftsmanship in the production and marketing of plant-based products, making it a strong addition to Schouten’s organization. Both companies share the same focus on quality, flexibility, innovation and long-term collaboration with customers and employees. This shared culture and commitment form a strong foundation for the future,” says Niek-Jan Schouten.
Photo: With the acquisition of Bobeldijk, Schouten increases its production capacity
Contributing to a more sustainable food system
With this expansion, Schouten becomes the largest family-owned company in the European market for meat alternatives. The acquisition fits within the growth strategy of the new generation within the family, with a strong focus on innovation, international expansion and further strengthening of the organization.
“Last year, we achieved revenue growth of more than 30%, while many sales markets are stabilizing. That gives us confidence for the future. We continue to invest in innovation and accelerating the protein transition. Not only because we believe in the growth opportunities of plant-based food, but above all because, as a family business, we want to contribute to a more sustainable and future-proof food system.”
