FDBusiness.com

Unilever has received a binding offer for the purchase of its Alsa baking and dessert business from Dr Oetker for an undisclosed amount. The transaction would include the manufacturing unit in Ludres, France.

Founded in 1891, the family-run business Dr Oetker ranks among the leading brand manufacturers in the German food industry. Dr Oetker production and distribution firms are active in some 40 countries. Apart from Germany, the companies operate primarily in Western and Eastern Europe, but also in North and South America, Africa, Asia and Australia. The turnover of the international Dr Oetker companies totalled Eur2.41 billion in 2016.

Bauke Rouwers, General Manager of Unilever France, says:“In the context of our global strategy to accelerate long term, sustainable value creation, the baking and desserts category is not part of Unilever’s evolving core portfolio. We are confident that under Dr. Oetker’s ownership and support, Alsa, which has established a strong legacy in the world of desserts since its origins in 1897 in Lorraine, would be able to progress to its full potential.”

Didier Muller, General Manager of Dr. Oetker France, says: “Alsa is a brand whose know-how and product quality perfectly complement our product range. We would be happy to welcome Alsa into Dr. Oetker’s group. Our goal is to pursue the brand’s growth and development both in France and internationally, based on its know-how and innovation capabilities.”

The binding offer is subject to the usual regulatory requirements and consultation processes.