France-based agri-food investor Unigrains has acquired a minority stake in the family-owned poultry specialist Savel Group. This investment was made in conjunction with another local investor, Unexo Credit Agricole, although financial specifics and stake sizes remain undisclosed. Savel has indicated that both investors have invested “on an equal basis.”
Additionally, Marc Léon, the president of Savel, has increased his share in the company through this “accretive” transaction, while family shareholders continue to hold a substantial majority of the business.
Established in 1968 and located in Lannilis, within France’s Finistère department, Savel specializes in niche poultry products, including cockerel, guinea fowl, and slow-grown yellow chicken. The company is also involved in the turkey sector through its La Toque Bretonne and Béziau operations.
The backing from Unigrains and Unexo is expected to facilitate Savel’s “organic and external growth” and assist in its diversification into prepared foods. Operating in western France, Savel collaborates with a network of 150 poultry farmers situated near its five production facilities.
Employed by Savel are 470 staff members, and the company boasts annual sales exceeding €150 million ($159.3 million), primarily distributing its products through the out-of-home catering channel. Léon spoke on the investors’ support, stating: “Their support and understanding of our challenges will enable us to accelerate our development while remaining true to our family values.”
Nicolas Mulle, an investment director at Unigrains, commented: “Savel Group has successfully differentiated itself in the highly competitive poultry segment thanks to its positioning in specialty niche species. For Unigrains, this investment is about supporting the growth of a key player – both upstream and downstream – led by a recognized and high-quality management team.”
Unigrains has remained active in investment opportunities recently. In the previous month, it took a stake in Spanish ready-to-go food business Ñaming, and it shortly followed that announcement with the backing of French dairy group Beillevaire.
As the food and drink business evolves, investments like these highlight the importance of understanding consumer trends and adapting to market demands. Strategic partnerships in the food and beverage industry, such as the one formed between Unigrains, Unexo, and Savel, can significantly influence growth trajectories and operational efficiencies within this competitive landscape.
