Information on the Target

Les Délices du Chef, located in Locoal-Mendon near Vannes, is a prominent manufacturer in the production of blinis, pancakes, crêpes, and galettes. Founded 22 years ago by Erwan Le Roux, along with co-founders Sébastien Chanoir and Yannick Le Borgne, the company has established itself in the food industry, employing approximately 50 staff members. With a nearly €11 million turnover from sales in both domestic and international markets, Les Délices du Chef has been able to successfully export over 30% of its production, catering to various sectors including organic and conventional supermarkets, out-of-home catering, and B2B distribution.

Industry Overview in France

France's food industry is renowned for its diversity and quality, with a strong emphasis on traditional and artisanal production methods. The market for ready-to-eat products, particularly those emphasizing natural ingredients, is growing rapidly as consumers increasingly prioritize health and sustainability. The trend toward organic foods is especially notable, with organic products experiencing a rise in demand across all food categories.

The ready-to-eat segment, including items such as blinis, pancakes, and crêpes, is gaining attention not only from consumers but also from food service providers seeking to enhance their menus with high-quality offerings. French consumers are particularly conscious of the origins of their food, seeking products that align with their values of health and pleasure.

With increasing competition in this segment, companies that emphasize quality, authenticity, and traceability tend to gain a competitive edge. Additionally, as the trend for convenience continues to surge, businesses that can marry high-quality food with easy-to-prepare options are poised for success.

The Rationale Behind the Deal

The acquisition of Les Délices du Chef by the Naturellement Gourmand group aligns seamlessly with the group's strategy to expand its product portfolio in line with the increasing consumer preference for natural and high-quality food products. This move is also aimed at enhancing the group's presence in organic markets both domestically and internationally. By integrating well-established brands under one umbrella, Naturellement Gourmand can leverage synergies and strengthen its market position.

Information about the Investor

Abenex is the majority shareholder of the Naturellement Gourmand group and is committed to supporting its growth trajectory through strategic acquisitions. In addition to Abenex, Arkéa Capital, part of the Arkéa group, is also involved in this partnership, reflecting a strong backing from reputable financial institutions. The sellers of Les Délices du Chef have taken a participatory role in the new structure, becoming shareholders in the Naturellement Gourmand group, which may foster a collaborative atmosphere benefiting overall growth.

View of Dealert

From an expert perspective, this acquisition is poised to be a favorable investment for the Naturellement Gourmand group. The synergy between the two companies, united by shared values around naturalness and quality, is likely to drive innovation and growth. The infusion of expertise from the management teams of both companies presents an opportunity to capitalize on emerging trends, particularly in the organic sector.

Moreover, positioning itself effectively in both the domestic and export markets will be crucial. Les Délices du Chef’s established infrastructure and market presence can significantly enhance the group’s capability to capture a larger share of the market. Given the current consumer trends favoring organic and natural foods, the timing of this acquisition is auspicious.

Overall, if executed effectively, this deal has the potential to reinforce the Naturellement Gourmand group’s standing as a key player in the French food industry, making it an investment to watch.

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