Dutch meat processor and ready-meals manufacturer Van Loon Group has announced plans to close its pork processing facility in Roosendaal at the beginning of next year. This decision reflects the company’s response to evolving challenges within the food and beverage industry.
The Roosendaal plant, managed by the Best Star Meat division, will cease operations permanently at the end of March. From January 1, production and logistical functions will be transitioned to other Van Loon locations. Furthermore, as of July 1, the sales, livestock, and support roles currently based in Roosendaal will be relocated to Van Loon’s facilities in Son of Best.
In a LinkedIn statement, the family-owned Van Loon Group explained, “This decision is the result of a thorough evaluation of current market conditions and the need to improve operational efficiency.” Group CEO Robert van Ballegooijen emphasized that while the Roosendaal facility has been instrumental in the success of Best Star Meat Pork for many years, the trajectory of a shrinking and highly competitive pig market necessitates the optimization of supply chains and production processes.
Van Loon’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its operational capabilities aims to ensure the continuity and competitive position of Best Star Meat Pork. The company plans to continue investing in sustainable practices across its supply chains, adapting to trends and changes in the food and drink business landscape.
Operating through 11 divisions that encompass pork, beef, ready meals, and plant-based products, Van Loon has not disclosed the expected job losses resulting from this closure. The Roosendaal facility is known for processing pork for both the company’s internal divisions and industrial clientele.
The company stated, “The closure of the location in Roosendaal obviously has an impact on the employees involved. Best Star Meat Pork takes its responsibility in this regard and, together with the Joint Works Council, has drawn up an extensive package of social provisions.” The primary aim of this plan is to facilitate a “from job-to-job” transition, supported by training and personal consultations.
To gain a deeper understanding of the impact on staff and the competitive environment within the pork sector, we sought additional information from Van Loon. Notably, Van Loon’s competitors, such as Danish Crown and Vion Food Group, have also been facing significant challenges. Recently, Danish Crown announced job reductions affecting about 500 employees, citing a crisis linked to declining pig supplies and rising operational costs.
Additionally, Netherlands-based Vion Food Group is shifting its focus away from the German pork market, contemplating the closure of processing plants as it redirects efforts toward the Benelux region. The transition has led Vion to report losses due to strategic changes implemented in response to these market pressures.
This context illustrates the broader trends impacting the food and beverage industry, highlighting the need for companies to adapt continually to consumer demands and market dynamics. As the landscape shifts, organizations must leverage insights into food and drink consumer trends to navigate these challenges effectively.
