CJ Cheiljedang, a subsidiary of CJ Group, is considering acquiring a U.S.-based food processor, a move that would boost the company’s international presence. Although the company did not confirm its potential target, media reports suggest the company is Marshall, Minn.-based Schwan’s Co.
“We are reviewing purchasing a U.S. processed food maker as part of efforts to boost competitiveness in our overseas foods business, but nothing concrete has been decided,” CJ Cheiljedang noted in a June 7 regulatory filing.
According to The Investor, the transaction may be valued at an estimated $2.8 billion.
Schwan’s Co. did not respond to a request for comment on the potential transaction.
Schwan’s Co. makes products under the Schwan’s, Red Baron, Freschetta, Tony’s, Mrs. Smith’s, Edwards, Pagoda and Larry’s brands, and sells frozen foods from home delivery trucks, in grocery stores, by mail and to the food service industry. Schwan’s is the second largest frozen pizza maker, trailing only Nestle.
Founded in 1953, CJ Cheiljedang has operations in food ingredients (including sugar, wheat and oil), food, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.
By Eric Schroeder
Source: Food Business News
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