Belgian food group Vandemoortele has made a major move in the global bakery market by acquiring French bakery giant Délifrance.
This acquisition propels Vandemoortele’s bakery division to nearly 2.4 billion euros in combined revenue, making it the European market leader in frozen bakery products.
Rapid expansion strategy
This marks Vandemoortele’s second major acquisition in just one week. Earlier, the company announced the purchase of Bunge’s European margarine and spreads division, expanding its presence in Central Europe and Scandinavia. Now, with Délifrance, it further strengthens its position worldwide.
Délifrance, previously owned by French cooperative food group Vivescia, generated 930 million euros in revenue in 2024. The company has over 3,200 employees and operates 14 production sites across Europe and Asia. Its products serve retailers, foodservice channels, and artisan bakeries.
From fourth to first in Europe
Vandemoortele’s bakery division, which recorded 1.4 billion euros in revenue last year, will now become Europe’s top player, overtaking competitors. In the past 18 months, the company has also acquired Dolciaria Acquaviva, Lizzi, and U.S.-based Banneton, securing its first production facility in the United States.
Notably, Délifrance was previously in exclusive talks with British investment firm CVC, but the deal fell through for undisclosed reasons, allowing Vandemoortele to step in.
A global bakery powerhouse
Vandemoortele CEO Yvon Guérin emphasized the strategic fit between the two companies. While Vandemoortele primarily supplies supermarkets, Délifrance has a strong foothold in the foodservice industry. Together, they will offer a comprehensive range of viennoiseries, pastries, and bread to a global market.
The acquisition, financed through cash and loans, cements Vandemoortele’s status as a global leader in frozen bakery products, with significant growth in both Europe and Asia.
