Natra, the private label and co-manufacturing company for chocolate products, and Bredabest, a Dutch producer of peanut butter and other peanut-based ingredients, have joined forces to create a powerhouse in sweet spreads and confectionery.
Natra has agreed to acquire Bredabest, which will facilitate the ongoing growth and development of the two businesses.
The acquisition strengthens product offerings, cross-selling opportunities, and supply chain integration, while supporting Natra’s international growth strategy, which recently included the acquisition of Belgian chocolate producer Gudrun in September 2024.
Founded in 1996 and based in the Netherlands, for Bredabest joining forces with Natra provides access to a wider international network and additional resources to support sustainable growth, while continuing operations at its existing facilities with all employees retained.
The company was founded by Pieter Stienen and Rainier van Rey, who have served as CEO and managing partner since its inception. They will remain shareholders of the group and continue with the business.
Bredabest will continue to operate under its existing brand and maintain its established way of working. The company’s management team will remain in place and continue to lead day-to-day operations, ensuring consistency for employees, customers, and suppliers.
Bredabest operates two processing locations in the Netherlands with significant capacity for future growth. A portfolio company of CapVest Partners LLP, Natra has over 1,400 employees across seven production plants in Spain, Belgium, France and Canada.
Commenting on the transaction, Armando Santacesaria, CEO of Natra, said: “Pieter and Rainier have built a fantastic business that is complementary to our business and aligns perfectly with Natra’s model.
“This exciting acquisition strengthens our ability to enhance our customer offering and accelerates our journey to becoming the preferred Private Label partner in Snacking & Indulgence.
“Looking ahead, Natra’s scale, global reach, and strong customer relationships will be transformational for Bredabest. We’re excited to welcome our new colleagues and work together to build on their impressive achievements and drive the growth of our combined business.”
Pieter Stienen, founder and CEO of Bredabest, said: “We are pleased to join forces with Natra, a strong long-term partner to take Bredabest into its next phase of growth. Natra’s global scale and complementary portfolio will unlock new opportunities while safeguarding the values and customer focus that have underpinned Bredabest’s success.
“My business partner Rainier van Rey and myself will remain part of Bredabest in our current roles, while remaining shareholders. In that respect we are fully committed to make this partnership a success.”
Completion of the transaction is subject to conditions and regulatory approval. Bredabest was advised by Squarefield, Vriman M&A Lawyers and PwC. Natra was advised by Willkie Farr & Gallagher and KPMG.