UK meat business Hilton Food Group has established a joint venture with The National Agricultural Development Company (NADEC) in Saudi Arabia.
In a recent filing with the London Stock Exchange, Hilton announced a “long-term collaboration,” initial terms of which extend for ten years. This strategic partnership aims to blend Hilton’s meat processing capabilities with NADEC’s strong local cattle operations.
Hilton Foods CEO Steve Murrells stated: “This is a JV which takes Hilton Foods into the Middle East for the very first time.”
As part of the alliance, Hilton plans to build “state-of-the-art” facilities in Saudi Arabia, while NADEC will provide resources and integrate red meat products into its existing distribution network.
Hilton Foods will hold a 49% stake in this joint venture, contributing £6.5 million ($8.4 million) of the initial SAR 60 million ($16 million) investment.
Murrells added, “Long-term, Hilton sees significant growth potential in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, leveraging its expertise and scalable technology to support local partners in these emerging growth markets.”
NADEC seeks to expand its red meat product range, enhancing its offerings by transitioning from in-store butchery to packaged meat.
The company currently supplies retailers and trade customers with local products under the NADEC brand, as well as other brands in Saudi Arabia and neighboring countries.
NADEC’s CEO, Solaiman Al-Twaijri, noted, “This partnership represents a significant milestone for NADEC as we expand our portfolio to include high-quality packaged red meat products. This joint venture with Hilton Foods aligns perfectly with our mission to provide premium, locally produced options while driving economic growth and supporting national objectives.”
Operations for the joint venture are expected to commence in the second half of 2026, pending regulatory approvals in Saudi Arabia and other customary conditions.
“Any material development will be announced in due course,” Hilton Foods stated.
In its annual trading update, Hilton Foods highlighted the ongoing expansion of its long-term collaboration with the US grocery giant Walmart.
Additionally, Hilton Foods confirmed that Hilton Foods Canada remains on track to begin operations in early 2027.
As part of a multi-year supply agreement announced with Walmart Canada in September 2023, Hilton Foods is establishing its first North American manufacturing facility, situated in eastern Canada
