Metro AG Acquires Aviludo Group In Portugal
GERMANY - Metro AG is on the move again with another acquisition deal. Recently, the German wholesaler completed the divestment of its Real hypermarket chain. The wholesaler is now eyeing another deal, this time acquiring the Aviludo Group, purportedly the second-largest foodservice distribution player in Portugal.
“Following the acquisitions of Pro à Pro, Rungis Express, and Classic Fine Foods in recent years, the acquisition of the Aviludo Group is a logical next step to further strengthen Metro’s expertise and reach,” Olaf Koch, CEO of Metro AG, commented. “We are now expanding the range of services for our customers in the important Portuguese market.
Aviludo generated sales of €152 million (around $180 million USD) last year supplying more than 13,500 customers, with a focus on independent restaurateurs, canteens, and restaurant chains, as stated in the press release. The business has a strong presence in Lisbon and the tourism-oriented south.
Metro stated in its release that the acquisition was a decisive step toward becoming fully focused on HoReCa, the Dutch foodservice and hotel industries, and would strengthen its position in the growing foodservice distribution segment. In addition to the operational business, the transaction comprises the distribution platforms of Aviludo.
“Thanks to Aviludo’s strong position, we will strengthen our nationwide presence in Portugal and we can offer our customers real added value in products and services, hence becoming very well positioned for further growth,” Koch continued
Aviludo is expected to remain broadly independent and keep its brand.
“With Metro AG, we found the right partner to accelerate our growth and enhance our commercial offer while at the same time preserving Aviludo’s success formula and greatest assets: our people and culture,” Aviludo Group’s CEO José Ressurreição stated.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the first half of next year. For more information on the deal, click here.
As Metro AG solidifies its hold in the Portuguese market, will we see a similar move for the U.S. market? AndNowUKnow will report.
