Cargill’s Sun Valley Acquires UK Poultry Business

08/01/08 Cargill is expanding its poultry operations in the UK with the acquisition of Freeman’s of Newent Ltd., a primary chicken processing business in Gloucestershire. The acquisition, which was completed on 4 January, will complement Cargill’s Sun Valley chicken operations. Freeman’s is a family owned business supplying fresh chicken to UK food service, retail and manufacturing customers.

Comments Richard Maxfield, managing director of Sun Valley Europe: “Freeman’s will strengthen our fresh chicken business, complement our existing operations in Hereford and reinforce our commitment to UK agriculture and our UK customers.”

The Freeman’s management team – which was headed up by Clifford and Nigel Freeman – will remain in place during the integration process and is working closely with the Cargill team to ensure a smooth and successful transition.

“We have built a strong and effective business over the years”, says Clifford Freeman. “Selling the business to Cargill as a going concern will position it well for future success and enable it to reach its full potential.”

Cargill’s global poultry business has grown over recent years with the acquisition of Seara’s poultry and pork business in Brazil. The company now has poultry facilities in the UK, France, Ireland, Netherlands, Canada, Brazil, Honduras, Nicaragua and Thailand.

“The acquisition of Freeman’s brings to Cargill a dedicated and committed team”, says Maxfield. “During the integration process, it is very much business as usual and great emphasis will be put on maintaining the excellent levels of service to which customers are accustomed.”