Orkla acquires Polish bakery products distributor Ambasador92

Norwegian branded consumer goods supplier Orkla has acquired Polish sales and distribution company Ambasador92, through its subsidiary PGD.

Ambasador92 is engaged in the sales and distribution of bakery and confectionery products in northern Poland.

It also has a presence in the out-of-home (OOH) channel, which consists of bakeries, confectioners, ice-cream producers and in-store bakeries.

Headquartered in Piaseczno, Ambasador92 operates five warehouses and a workforce of 128 employees.

Orkla president and CEO Jaan Ivar Semlitsch said: “Poland is an important and growing market for Orkla where we are building on our strong OOH positions.

“With our Nordic platform and most recent acquisition in Finland, Fort Deli 1 March 2021, we are enthusiastic to develop the OOH sector further.”

Previously owned by its senior executives, Ambasador92 recorded a turnover of zl138m ($36.7m) last year with a 17% growth rate in the past five years.

According to the deal, Ambassador92’s former owners and senior executives will continue their association with the company.

The deal has been approved by the Polish competition authorities.

With the completion of the deal, Ambassador92 will be part of Orkla Food Ingredients business.

Orkla Food Ingredients executive vice-president and CEO Johan Clarin said: “The purchase of Ambasador92 increases our access to the growing OHH market.

“In addition, we are strengthening our geographical presence in the Polish market, thereby better enabling us to be a full-range supplier to nationwide customers.

“As a bigger player, we will also be a more attractive partner for our suppliers. We see a possibility of positive potential synergies in warehousing, transport, procurement and sales.”

Earlier this month, Orkla acquired an 80% stake in Finnish foodservice company Seagood Oy Fort Deli (Fort Deli).