Bel Group in exclusive talks to acquire MOM Group

Bel Group has agreed to undertake exclusive negotiations with LBO France to acquire compote and dessert manufacturer MOM Group.

According to the proposed deal, the Bel Group will acquire a majority stake in MOM, while the latter’s current management will remain as a shareholder.

Bel owns brands such as The Laughing Cow, Kiri, Mini Babybel, Leerdammer and Boursin, which are sold in nearly 130 countries.

Majority owned by LBO France since 2010, the MOM Group has strong presence in France and the US, and owns brands such as Materne, Mont Blanc, Pom’Potes and GoGosqueeZ.

Over the last five years, MOM grew in size, reporting sales of €362m last year.

The proposed deal will allow Bel and MOM to become a major player in the global healthy snacks segment.

The proposal will be submitted to labour-representation bodies of both firms for consultation, and competent competition authorities for approval.

Following receipt of approvals, the companies expect to close the transaction by the end of this year.