The Dutch butter and dough manufacturers, Royal VIVBuisman and Van der Pol, have announced their merger, forming Royal Van Ballegooijen Foods (Royal VBF).
Previously, Van der Pol had been integrated into Royal VIVBuisman since 1989, following a purchase by the Van Ballegooijen family, although both companies operated independently until now.
In 2016, Royal VIVBuisman took over the butter manufacturing operations of Van der Pol, which then shifted its focus exclusively to dough products, including puff pastry. The merger officially took effect on January 1. This strategic move combines the strengths of the Van der Pol dough brand with the branded butters and ghee produced by Royal VIVBuisman, including names such as Wijsman, Royal Buisman Butter, and Gold Medal Ghee.
The newly formed entity caters to both retail and B2B environments, while also providing private-label services to customers. This merger is expected to enhance efficiency and agility within the business, strengthening their position in the food and beverage industry trends.
According to a statement from the merged group, “This merger brings together not only our administration but above all our knowledge, craftsmanship and innovation.” The new structure is poised to deliver high-quality butter and dough products to bakers, industrial partners, and retailers worldwide.
Bart Van Belleghem has been appointed managing director of Royal VBF, which is headquartered in Wijk en Aalburg. He emphasized the company’s longstanding commitment to quality, stating, “For generations, we have chosen quality, craftsmanship and flavour. This merger not only helps us work more efficiently but above all enables us to be even closer to our customers.”
The Van Ballegooijen family established their business in 1868, growing through strategic acquisitions. Royal VIVBuisman was acquired in 1967, followed by H.J. Wijsman & Zonen in 1973, and Royal Buisman in 1996 after the Van der Pol acquisition in 1989.
Van der Pol’s origins can be traced back to 1885 when Joost van der Pol founded the company with his spouse. Today, it also specializes in the production of croissant dough and cookie dough chunks, aligning with current food and drink consumer trends.
