Roger & Roger acquires Greenyard’s frozen plant in Hungary

Belgium-based potato and corn snacks producer Roger & Roger has announced the acquisition of assets, including employees of Greenyard Frozen in Hungary.

Financial details of the deal have not been divulged.

Greenyard is a global company that is engaged in the production of fresh, frozen and prepared fruit and vegetables.

Based in Mouscron, Belgium, Roger & Roger is a family owned business, which distributes crisps to more than twenty countries. The company is said to have established a strong presence in the potato and corn industry in Western Europe.

Roger & Roger CEO Yves De Vinck said: “Since a certain time we show more than normal interest in potential opportunities to further develop our business in Central Eastern Europe.

“The experience and know-how of the Hungarian farmers, together with the high motivation of the employees at the site, convinced us to acquire this plant from Greenyard.

“In the coming months, we will disclose more information on the future plans and investments we will make, to secure continuity and new growth for all stakeholders.”

The divestiture is reported to be part of Greenyard’s transformation plan, which focuses on improving its operations by optimising, rationalising and consolidating its footprint.

As part of this plan, Greenyard will be moving the production of its frozen products in Hungary to its other sites in Europe, thereby ensuring uninterrupted service for its customers.

Greenyard Frozen managing director Charles-Henri Deprez said: “We are very pleased that Roger & Roger, a socially responsible operating company, acquired our frozen plant in Hungary.

“Roger & Roger has decided to expand its business to the Hungarian market and has a clear intention to invest in it. Furthermore, the transaction safeguards the interest of all our stakeholders.”

In March, Greenyard announced its plans to cut 422 jobs as part of its transformation plan to close or divest its Baja frozen plant in Hungary.

The plan is expected to impact workers employed across different countries, especially in the UK and Germany, subject to the applicable information and consultation procedures.