EU regulator reviews Vandemoortele “commitments” in Délifrance takeover

Core Viewpoint - The EU regulator is reviewing concessions from Belgium bakery group Vandemoortele regarding its takeover of Délifrance, with a new deadline set for assessment on 18 December [1][2]. Group 1: Regulatory Review - The European Commission's competition arm was notified of the takeover deal in October, although it was initially announced by Vandemoortele in March for an undisclosed amount [1]. - A provisional deadline of 18 December has been established for the regulator to assess the commitments submitted by Vandemoortele on 27 November [2]. - The Commission indicated that the takeover could fall under merger regulation based on a preliminary examination and invited third-party comments within a ten-day window, which has since passed [3]. Group 2: Company Overview - Vandemoortele stated that the merger with Délifrance would create a bakery group valued at €2.4 billion ($2.7 billion), aimed at providing solutions to retail and foodservice partners [4]. - Délifrance, a subsidiary of Vivescia Group, reported a turnover of approximately €930 million for the year ending in June [4]. - Délifrance operates 14 production facilities and employs over 3,200 staff, while Vandemoortele has 28 manufacturing plants and 3,500 workers, with its bakery products generating an estimated turnover of €1.4 billion [5]. Group 3: Recent Acquisitions - Vandemoortele has expanded through recent acquisitions, including Bunge's European margarine and spreads business in March and Italian frozen bakery producer Lizzi in February [5]. - The company also acquired Italian bakery business Dolciaria Acquaviva and a majority stake in New Jersey-based Banneton last year [6]. - The combination with Délifrance will enhance Vandemoortele's offerings in viennoiseries, Danish pastries, and artisanal breads [6].