Portuguese agri-food firm Cerealis has successfully acquired Europasta for an undisclosed amount, further solidifying its position in the food and beverage industry. Previously, Cerealis held a 58.33% stake in the Czech Republic-based pasta manufacturer but has now taken full ownership of the operation.
In a statement on social media confirming this strategic move, Cerealis announced: “Cerealis acquired the entirety of the capital of Europasta, one of the largest pasta producers in Central Europe, with an approximate capacity of 100,000 tons per year.” This acquisition enhances Cerealis’s ability to service its European customers more effectively by improving operational efficiency, elevating service levels, expanding their product portfolio, and aiming to reduce CO2 emissions.
Moreover, the integration of Europasta’s operations is anticipated to serve as a vital platform for potential future acquisitions in the region, aligning with evolving food and drink business dynamics. Cerealis has reached out to Europasta for further comments on the acquisition.
Cerealis’s interest in Europasta is not recent; they initially acquired a 33.33% stake in the company back in 2010 and gradually increased their share. Europasta boasts a renowned lineup of brands, including Adriana, Zátkovy, Rosické, and Ideál, with its products primarily distributed in Central Europe. The brand’s annual revenue is estimated at around €70 million ($77.3 million), reflecting solid consumer demand in the sector.
Founded in 1919, Cerealis was recently acquired in August 2021 by investment firms Tangor Capital and Teak Capital. The company processes over 400,000 tons of cereals annually at four production sites. Based in Aguas Santas, Maia, Cerealis manufactures a diverse range of products including breakfast cereals, cereal bars, pasta, cookies, and frozen meals. Additionally, they operate as a miller and supplier of flour, with notable brands such as Nacional, Milaneza, and Adriana.
As the food and drink consumer trends evolve, this acquisition could significantly influence not only Cerealis’s market position but also the competitive landscape in the food and beverage industry.