Major Spanish meat processor Grupo Vall Companys has successfully negotiated a deal with Mexico’s Sigma Alimentos, which encompasses several key assets in Spain.
This two-part agreement will result in the transfer of the Agroalimentaria Chico pig farm—recently acquired by Grupo Vall—to Deporcyl, a partnership formed between the two firms.
According to both companies, this strategic move will enable Sigma to secure higher-quality raw materials while enhancing traceability in its pork supply chain.
Furthermore, Grupo Vall will acquire a majority stake in Sigma’s slaughterhouse and cutting facilities located in Burgos, with Sigma Europa continuing as a partner in the operation, as confirmed by the companies.
This collaboration is anticipated to maximize efficiency at the Burgos site, subsequently boosting production levels significantly.
The comprehensive agreement is pending official submission and clearance from the National Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC), which is Spain’s competition regulatory authority.
This arrangement allows Grupo Vall to focus on livestock and slaughterhouse management, enabling Sigma to concentrate on producing and marketing fresh and processed meats tailored for consumers.
Albert Morera, director of Grupo Vall’s pork division, emphasized that this initiative will help “maximise the strengths of both companies” and enhance operational efficiencies throughout the pork value chain—from farm to fork, including the processing sector.
Sigma specializes in the manufacturing and marketing of food products such as meats, cheeses, yogurts, and diverse packaged chilled and frozen items. The company operates 64 plants across 17 countries, focusing on four primary markets: Europe, Mexico, the U.S., and Latin America.
Within Europe, Sigma markets its products under well-known brands including Campofrío, Navidul, Justin Bridou, Marcassou, and Caroli. It produces and supplies goods in seven European nations and exports to more than 60 countries worldwide.
In June, Sigma’s subsidiary Campofrío committed €134 million ($156.7 million) to establish a new processed-meat plant in Spain. This new facility in Utiel will replace an older site 75 km to the east in Torrent, near Valencia.
The Torrent facility, which employed over 300 workers, was “severely” impacted by a hurricane in October.
Grupo Vall, founded in 1956, remains a family-owned enterprise.
Recently, the company acquired full control of fellow Spanish meat firm Embutidos Rodríguez in January 2023. Following this, it secured a minority stake in Brazilian pork processor Master Agroindustria in March of the same year.
In June 2022, Grupo Vall finalized a deal to acquire the majority of Spanish poultry firm Grupo Sada.
