Orkla acquires stake in Finland-based Fort Deli

Norwegian branded consumer goods supplier Orkla has acquired an 80% stake in Finnish foodservice company Seagood Oy Fort Deli (Fort Deli).

The remaining 20% stake will be held by Fort Deli CEO Henrik Poulsen, who will continue in the role.

Headquartered in Vantaa, Finland, Fort Deli was established in 1996 and has a presence in the Finnish HoReCa market with its concepts such as Hank’s Sauces, Nonna’s Sauces and Texas Pete Hot Sauce.

It supplies frozen products, sauces, and condiments.

With ten employees, Fort Deli registered a turnover of €8.7m in 2020.

Orkla president and CEO Jaan Ivar Semlitsch said: “With this acquisition, we follow through on our strategy to invest in the foodservice and out-of-home markets, which we see as significant future growth platforms.

“In addition, we continue our expansion in the growing Finnish home market, where both our branded consumer goods businesses and our out-of-home business through Kotipizza show excellent momentum.”

The deal will strengthen Orkla’s presence in the Finnish foodservice sector.

In Finland, Orkla operates through four companies and has a total of 719 employees, according to data from 31 December.

Orkla Suomi CEO Pasi Flinkman said: “With this agreement, we combine Orkla’s strong product portfolio with Fort Deli’s well-established customer relationships, competence, and solutions for the out-of-home market.

“The acquisition is in line with our ambition to increase the focus on our foodservice business and we see great potential in working together with the Fort Deli organisation.”

The financial details of the deal have not been disclosed.

The deal will be consolidated into Orkla’s financial statements as of 1 March 2021.