JBT to acquire Cooling and Applied Technologies

US-based food processing machinery supplier JBT has signed a $90m definitive agreement to purchase the assets of Cooling and Applied Technologies (CAT), an American manufacturer of value-added food solutions.

Subject to regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions, the transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of this year.

JBT chairman president and chief executive officer Tom Giacomini said: “The addition of CAT enhances JBT's presence in primary and secondary protein processing and advances our strategic acquisition programmd in proteins and liquid foods.

“The CAT team brings deep technical knowledge, an excellent reputation, and strong relationships within the poultry industry, enhancing JBT's value proposition in the domestic market.

“As part of JBT, CAT will access our global sales and service organisation, driving geographic expansion of their technology.”

Located in Russellville, Aizona, CAT manufactures value-added food solutions, primarily for the poultry industry.

The company offers chillers, injection, marination, weighing, freezing and refrigeration systems, which will complement JBT's lineup of core offerings.

CAT co-owner and president Barton Langley said: “As part of JBT, we will continue to serve our loyal customers with expanded capabilities and innovative solutions.”

JBT manufactures products and systems for multinational and regional customers through its FoodTech segment. It also sells critical equipment and services to domestic and international air transportation customers through its AeroTech segment.

JBT has a global workforce of more than 4,000 people and operates in more than 25 countries.