Nestlé Professional Signs New Acquisition in Scandinavia and Finland

“This acquisition positions us as a strong leader in this premium category, complementing the presence of our Chef and Maggi brands,” said Marc Caira, Chief Executive Officer for Nestlé Professional.

Nov 21 2011 --- Nestlé Professional, the Nestlé business that supplies the food service out-of-home industry, is strengthening its portfolio with a new acquisition in Scandinavia and Finland.

The purchase of the stocks and sauces business Oscar from the Paulig Group will boost Nestlé Professional’s presence in the ‘culinary flavours’ sector.

Oscar’s premium products and chef expertise will complement strong performers in the Nestlé Professional food portfolio like Chef and Maggi.

Closing of this agreement is expected to take place by the end of 2011.

Worldwide growth

Nestlé Professional has achieved solid worldwide growth in 2011 with its innovative products and systems in both the beverages and the food parts of its business.

Earlier this year the company invested EUR 35 million to extend its Erlenbacher factory in Germany.

It also opened a new Davigel Culinary Training and Expertise centre in France.

Nestlé Professional’s super premium barista system Viaggi , launched first in France, is now being rolled out to other markets in Europe.

And its premium Nescafé Milano beverage system has been introduced in North America and parts of Asia, in addition to recent launches in Europe.

“From scratch”

Oscar crafts its stocks and sauces at factories in Denmark and Finland, following traditional methods defined by famous French chef and culinary author Auguste Escoffier.

They are produced without any additives or flavourings.

The new acquisition of this premium stocks and sauces operation gives Nestlé Professional an opportunity to expand its out-of-home food business in Denmark and Finland where the Oscar brand is used widely, and further afield.

“This acquisition positions us as a strong leader in this premium category, complementing the presence of our Chef and Maggi brands,” said Marc Caira, Chief Executive Officer for Nestlé Professional.

“Culinary flavour solutions is a growth category, with top level chefs increasingly interested in using manufactured “from scratch” solutions.

“It is with pleasure that we welcome Oscar to Nestlé Professional,” he added.

“We believe this is a perfect home for our stocks and sauces business,” continued Jaana Tuominen, Chief Executive Officer for the Paulig Group.

“With Nestlé Professional’s vast experience and culinary professionals, Oscar has now even greater possibility to proceed with its expansive growth strategy and new strategic initiatives.”