ENGLISH BAY BATTER acquired by CERELIA
Context
Cérélia Group has acquired English Bay Batter from the Canadian investment holding Kilmer Van Nostrand. This transaction is a transformative step in Cérélia’s internationalization, shifting its revenue mix from 35% to 65% international (with North America representing a quarter of total sales). The acquisition was financed through a full debt refinancing of the group, covering 100% of the purchase price and allowing for an exceptional dividend payment to IK Investment Partners (representing 25% of the initial equity). Following the deal, the group’s leverage increased from 4.5x to 5.1x EBITDA. Pro-forma for the acquisition, Cérélia’s total turnover exceeds €400 million, solidifying its position as a global multi-specialist in the ready-to-bake and snack sectors.
ENGLISH BAY BATTER, which reported an EBITDA margin of in 2017, is valued in this transaction at an EV/EBITDA multiple of , a level to compare with the average currently observed in the AgriFood sector (10.4x).
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Target
Founded in 1983, English Bay Batter is a major North American manufacturer of refrigerated and frozen bake-off products. The company specializes in gourmet cookies, muffins, and brownies, serving both the food service industry and retail channels. At the time of the acquisition, it was ranked as the fourth-largest player in its sector in North America. Its business model focuses on high-quality dough and batter formulations, operating multiple production facilities across Canada and the United States. Strategically, the company provides a strong platform for European food groups looking to enter the North American convenience baking market through established distribution networks and localized production capabilities.
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06/2017 | THE CARLYLE GROUP | IRCA | ITALY | Ingredients |
| 05/2017 | EURAZEO | GROUPE CPK (CARAMBAR POULAIN KREMA) | FRANCE | Food Products |
| 01/2017 | MADEMOISELLE DESSERTS | MINISTRY OF CAKE | UNITED KINGDOM | Bakery / Pastry |
| 11/2016 | BRIDGEPOINT | VITAMIN WELL | SWEDEN | Soft Drinks |
| 11/2016 | CHARTERHOUSE | CASA OPTIMA | ITALY | Ingredients |
| 10/2016 | MEANINGS CAPITAL PARTNERS | COMPAGNIE COLONIALE | FRANCE | Coffee & Tea |
| 09/2016 | AMPLIFY SNACK BRANDS | TYRRELLS | UNITED KINGDOM | Food Products |
| 09/2016 | GROUPE BEL | MATERNE-MONTBLANC (MOM GROUP) | FRANCE | Food Products |
| 07/2016 | DANONE | WHITEWAVE | UNITED STATES | Dairy |
| 06/2016 | HANA GROUP | PEACE DINING CORP | UNITED STATES | Food Products |
REFERENCES
Revenue range: 50M - 100M EUR
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Authors: This transaction was contributed by a verified mynth contributor and cross-checked against available transaction documents and official company communications.