Bel Group has appointed Peter McGuinness, the former chief executive of Impossible Foods, to lead its North America operations. As the new CEO of Bel North America, McGuinness will manage offices in key locations such as New York City, Chicago, and Montreal, in addition to overseeing five manufacturing plants across the United States and Canada.
His primary responsibilities will encompass accelerating growth, enhancing mergers and acquisitions, driving breakthrough innovation, strengthening the company’s local presence, and fostering a more sustainable and performance-oriented food business. This statement was released on February 9.
McGuinness recently stepped down as CEO of Impossible Foods, a role he held since April 2022. The responsibilities he left behind are being handled by an executive leadership team rather than a single successor. This team includes Jason Gao (Chief Legal and Operating Officer), Meredith Madden (Chief Demand Officer), and Robert Haas (Chief Supply Officer).
Before his tenure at Impossible Foods, McGuinness spent over nine years at Chobani, where he served as president and COO. His expertise in the food and beverage industry makes him a significant asset for Bel Group.
Cécile Béliot, the CEO of Bel Group, remarked, “North America, and particularly the US, is a cornerstone of Bel’s future.” She added, “Peter is a transformational, values-driven leader whose track record aligns perfectly with Bel’s ‘two-leg’ model – where profitability and sustainability are equally important. His appointment reflects our confidence in the strength of Bel North America, our Purpose Full Snacking ambition, and our belief that performance and responsibility go hand in hand.”
Bel North America is home to several key brands, including Babybel and Boursin. The company operates manufacturing facilities in Idaho, Michigan, Wisconsin, South Dakota, and Quebec. Notably, Bel is currently expanding capacity at its Little Chute, Wisconsin, and Brookings, South Dakota, plants to meet increasing demand within the food and drink business.
McGuinness expressed enthusiasm about his new role, stating, “I’m excited to accelerate Purpose Full Snacking across North America and beyond – making it easier for people to snack more intentionally and deliciously with fruit, veggie, and cheese options that bring nourishment and joy, and maybe a laugh or two along the way.”
Bel Group is also recognized for famous brands like The Laughing Cow and Kiri, along with fruit-based products under labels such as Pom’Potes and GoGo squeeZ.
The company releases its financial results both annually and semi-annually. In its latest report, covering the six months ending in June, Bel Group experienced a 3.2% organic revenue increase to €1.87 billion ($2.2 billion). However, operating income fell by 10.9% to €108.9 million, with net profit decreasing to €46.4 million from €52.7 million in the same period the previous year.
