Natra to strengthen sweet spreads, confectionery portfolio with Bredabest acquisition

NETHERLANDS – European chocolate producer Natra has announced an agreement to acquire Bredabest, a Dutch supplier of peanut butter and peanut-based ingredients, for an undisclosed sum.

The strategic acquisition is designed to strengthen Natra’s portfolio in sweet spreads and confectionery by leveraging Bredabest’s expertise in peanut processing. 

The move also gives Bredabest access to Natra’s broader distribution network and resources, while keeping its operations and workforce in the Netherlands.

Pending regulatory approval and other customary conditions, the transaction will enable Bredabest to continue operating under its existing brand. 

Its management team will remain in place to oversee daily operations, ensuring continuity for employees and customers.

Founded in 1996, Bredabest has become a recognized supplier of natural peanut products across Europe. Founders Pieter Stienen and Rainier van Rey will retain both their roles and shares in the company.

Bredabest CEO Pieter Stienen commented: “We are pleased to join forces with Natra, a strong long-term partner to take Bredabest into its next phase of growth. Natra’s global scale and complementary portfolio will unlock new opportunities while safeguarding the values and customer focus that have underpinned Bredabest’s success.”

Stienen added that both he and co-founder Rainier van Rey will remain in their current roles while also staying on as shareholders. 

He emphasized that this reflects their full commitment to making the partnership a success and ensuring that Bredabest continues to thrive under its new ownership.

Natra, which is backed by CapVest Partners, is a significant player in the European chocolate industry. 

The company sells its products in more than 90 countries and operates seven production plants across Spain, Belgium, France, and Canada, employing over 1,400 people.

Natra CEO Armando Santacesaria said, “Pieter and Rainier have built a fantastic business that is complementary to our business and aligns perfectly with Natra’s model. This exciting acquisition strengthens our ability to enhance our customer offering and accelerates our journey to becoming the preferred Private Label partner in Snacking & Indulgence.”

He further noted that Natra’s scale, global reach, and strong customer relationships will be transformational for Bredabest. 

Welcoming the Dutch supplier’s team, Santacesaria expressed confidence in working together to build on their achievements and drive the growth of the combined business.

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