Voeders Algoet sells around 150,000 tons of compound feed to swine and ruminant farmers. In the split financial year (1& July to 30 June) 2016/2017, the company generated sales of approximately €40 million with an operating result before amortization and depreciation (EBITDA) of approximately €2 million.
ForFarmers is paying circa 7 times Voeders Algoet's EBITDA. Closing of the transaction is expected to take place in the second half year of 2018, pending, among others, approval from the Belgian competition authorities. Voeders Algoet's results will be consolidated in the results of ForFarmers as of closing date.
Voeders Algoet's current management and 22 staff form part of the transaction. In addition, 12 bulk trailers are included in the acquisition. As a result, ForFarmers is starting its own transport activities in Belgium. Voeders Algoet will be integrated into ForFarmers Belgium. Voeders Algoet's contract farming* activities is not taken over by ForFarmers. Over time, Voeders Algoet's feed production will probably be transferred to the current ForFarmers factories in Izegem and Ingelmunster.
Moving forward
Adrie van der Ven, COO, and responsible for the ForFarmers Belgium/Germany cluster and new regions: "This acquisition fits into the consolidation that is needed for a healthy agricultural sector in Belgium in the long-term. Combining the knowledge of both companies to optimally support customers with their business targets is the main priority. Voeders Algoet's experience and market position contribute to a further reinforcement of our Total Feed approach in Belgium. The new combination will also be the second largest feed company in Belgium."
Steven and Olivier Algoet, the current owners of Voeders Algoet, see an opportunity to expand their offerings to customers further with this transaction: "ForFarmers and Voeders Algoet are ambitious and focused on offering quality feed, with the accompanying professional advice. The focus is on increasing yields in the agricultural business. This step gives our customers and staff the opportunity to grow with the company towards ForFarmers' ambitions."
(*) contract farming: farmers produce pigs under contract from a manufacturer at a pre-agreed price for their work and premises.
