Vion Food Group to divest remaining German assets, to focus on Benelux Markets

NETHERLANDS – Netherlands-based meat producer Vion Food Group has announced plans to divest its remaining assets in Germany, continuing a strategic shift towards concentrating on the Benelux markets.

This decision comes five months after the company shut down a plant and sold three others in Germany.

In a statement issued on June 4, Vion revealed it is reviewing strategic options for its German operations.

The company emphasized its commitment to finding suitable partners to ensure the growth and stability of its German businesses, employees, customers, and suppliers.

Vion assured that no closures are anticipated during this process.

Vion CEO Ronald Lotgerink stressed the company’s dedication to selecting capable partners who can secure a prosperous future for the German assets.

Earlier this year, Vion entered into agreements to sell two of its meat facilities in Germany to the local meat giant Tönnies Group.

These facilities include a cattle slaughterhouse and pre-packaged meat facility in Altenburg, Thuringia, and a ham processing plant in Westphalia.

Additionally, a pig processing plant in Perleberg was sold to Uhlen, another meat processor.

Despite efforts to sell its pig plant in Emstek, Vion was unable to find a buyer, leading to its closure.

The latest developments follow a series of closures announced by Vion.

In May 2023, the company decided to shut down a beef plant in Bad Bramstedt, affecting 250 employees.

Five months later, it announced the closure of a convenience foods plant in Großostheim, impacting 220 jobs.

These closures were part of Vion’s broader organizational changes aimed at stimulating sustainable growth, initiated mid-last year.

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