Ireland’s East Coast Bakehouse has been acquired by the Danish manufacturer Bisca, known for its cakes and biscuits.
Based in Drogheda, County Louth, East Coast Bakehouse will now operate as a “standalone” subsidiary under Bisca’s international umbrella. This transition is effective as of today, May 1st, though financial details of the acquisition remain undisclosed.
Founded in 2016, East Coast Bakehouse produces its own labels—The Bakehouse and The Home of Irish Biscuits—as well as private label products for major UK and Irish retailers, including Tesco, Asda, and Lidl. Notably, the company exports to 15 markets and serves as a co-manufacturer from its single facility located near Dublin.
Kristian Walsøe, CEO of Bisca, stated, “East Coast Bakehouse’s products are an excellent fit with our portfolio and complement what we already offer. They have a strong presence in Ireland and the UK, while we have a solid position in the Nordics and Northern Europe, creating a strong combined geographic footprint. At the same time, they operate a modern and well-established production set-up that we can build upon.”
Bisca, owned by Danish private-equity firm Erhvervsinvest, acquired the company in 2024 from the Norwegian food group Scandza. With roots tracing back to 1890, Bisca carries a royal warrant in Denmark and boasts brands such as Karen Volf, Karen’s Bakery, All in One, and Mon. The firm claims to be a “market leader” in Denmark and services markets across the Nordics, Northern Europe, and North America.
David Carey, Chief Commercial Officer of East Coast Bakehouse, expressed enthusiasm for the new partnership: “We are delighted to team up with Bisca, who were from the early stages identified as an ideal new strategic partner to help maintain and accelerate the exciting growth momentum behind East Coast Bakehouse. The deal will bring new opportunities and new volume to our business and our retail and supply partners.”
Looking ahead, East Coast Bakehouse will retain its Drogheda facility, with Bisca-Erhvervsinvest pledging to provide new investment aimed at fueling future growth. This acquisition positions both companies advantageously within the food and beverage industry trends, potentially enhancing their reach in the ever-evolving food and drink business and consumer trends.
