The Theo Müller Group has received competition approval in Poland to acquire the local seafood company, Graal.
The agreement between Müller and Graal’s private equity owners was first disclosed in February 2023. This week, Müller alongside the seller, Abris Capital Partners, announced that the transaction has been officially cleared.
According to Müller, this acquisition marks a “significant step” for the enhancement of Lisner, its fish and deli enterprise in Poland. Müller further stated, “Graal Group is an excellent addition to our existing fish business. As a result, we will offer even more unique products, including canned fish and ready-to-eat meals.”
Abris Capital first invested in Graal in 2017 through a majority stake, in partnership with CEO and founder Bogusław Kowalski, leading to a full takeover.
Graal operates in the food and beverage industry, providing canned and chilled fish products as well as ready meals under its renowned brand and the Neptun and Kuchnia Staropolska lines. The company also offers a range of private-label solutions.
Wojciech Jezierski of Abris remarked, “During our partnership with Graal and Bogusław Kowalski, we have helped create an unquestionable market leader with a diverse portfolio of branded and private-label products.”
Operating from three manufacturing facilities and a distribution center in Poland, Graal employs over 2,200 people and exports to more than 30 countries. In 2022, the group recorded sales of 1.6 billion zlotys (€350 million), according to data released by Abris.
Kowalski stated, “After 33 years of development of the company, I will step aside at Graal after a short transition period. The Graal and Lisner businesses have strong product complementarity, and I’m convinced that the new owner will create fantastic opportunities for Graal to continue its growth strategy, entering new geographic locations in Europe and globally.”
This acquisition is expected to enhance Müller’s position in the food and drink business, catering to evolving consumer trends in the food and beverage industry. By leveraging the strengths of both companies, Müller aims to further innovate and increase its presence in the marketplace.
