Pilgrim’s Europe is set to acquire Walkers Deli & Sausage Company from manufacturing business, Samworth Brothers, subject to approval by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) and employee consultation.
Walkers Deli & Sausage is described as one of the UK’s most established and respected producers of premium pork products, with portfolio spanning premium sausages, sliced cooked meats, cooked bacon, snacking products, and pâté.
Dating back to 1824 and currently employing approximately 1,150 people in Leicestershire, it serves leading UK retailers and is recognised for its expertise in premium own-label food production.
Pilgrim’s Europe said the acquisition represents an important strategic step, ‘strengthening its position within the UK food industry and expanding its presence in value-added premium pork categories’, enhancing its footprint in the UK and building on an existing long-standing relationship between the two businesses.
Ivan Siqueira, President of Pilgrim’s Europe, said: “Walkers Deli & Sausage is a fantastic business with a proud heritage, a highly skilled team and a strong reputation for quality and innovation. This acquisition is a natural strategic fit for Pilgrim’s Europe.
“We already have a well-established supply relationship with Walkers Deli & Sausage and see significant opportunities to build on the strengths of both businesses.
“By bringing Walkers Deli & Sausage into Pilgrim’s Europe, we will further strengthen our integrated supply chain, expand our presence in attractive premium pork categories and enhance our ability to serve customers across the UK.”
Samworth Brothers chief executive, Simon Wookey added: “Walkers Deli & Sausage is an outstanding business that has made a significant contribution to Samworth Brothers over many years. As the protein sector has become increasingly specialised and integrated, we believe Walkers Deli & Sausage is well positioned for its next phase of growth as part of a business with protein at its core and expertise across the supply chain.
“This transaction enables Samworth Brothers to focus investment on the significant growth opportunities we see across Food to Go, Savoury Pastry, Meals and our portfolio of Brands. We are incredibly proud of what our Walkers Deli & Sausage colleagues have built and grateful for their contribution. We are confident this move provides a strong platform for the business’s future success.”
The two companies said immediate priority following completion will be to support Walkers Deli & Sausage colleagues through the transition, while maintaining the high levels of service and quality that customers expect.
Samworth Brothers has a turnover of £1.8bn, with more than 12,000 staff members working at sites including Leicestershire, Cornwall, East Sussex, Manchester and Dublin.