Key Highlights
- Simplot to acquire Clarebout Potatoes, based in Belgium
- Deal expected to close by the end of 2025 pending approval
- Acquisition strengthens Simplot’s presence in Europe
- Both family-owned companies emphasize shared values
An international acquisition being sought by a major Boise-based company could be closed by the end of 2025.
The J.R. Simplot Company recently announced plans to acquire the operating business of Belgium-based Clarebout Potatoes. Once all regulatory paperwork is approved, the two companies expect to finish the deal.
“This is an exciting time for Simplot,” said Graham Dugdale, president of Simplot‘s Global Food business. “We are thrilled about the synergy that Clarebout brings to our business, which not only expands our ability to serve the European market, but brings together a pair of family-owned companies who align closely in core values and our commitment to customers, employees and the communities were we operate.”
Clarebout is based in Nieuwkerke, West Flanders, Belgium, and employs more than 3,000 people. It has grown its business operations over the past 37 years, establishing a worldwide customer base.
According to Simplot, “the agreement between the two parties provides for the maintenance, and even expansion, of Clarebout Potatoes’ assets ― staff and production sites ― on the European continent.”
“It’s a coming together of heart and mind,” said Jan Clarebout, CEO of Clarebout Potatoes. “With Simplot, we share the common values of family businesses. Simplot, like Clarebout, started from scratch and managed to grow while remaining faithful to principles as essential as respect for people and the Earth. We could have continued on our own, but the economic reality of the world, and a form of common sense, led us to come together. It’s a choice for the future and a sustainable future.”
In a release, Simplot stated that the acquisition comes after both companies discussed their shared want “to form a strong food foundation capable of meeting the world’s evolving economic, agricultural and environmental demands.”
The combination of Simplot with Clarebout will allow the companies to serve countries around the world from localized supplies at 23 production locations.