Orkla expands in Poland with Ambasador 92 acquisition

Orkla has acquired Polish sales and distribution company, Ambasador 92, through its subsidiary PGD.

Headquartered in Piaseczno, Ambasador 92 was previously owned by senior executive employees at the company.

The firm is said to be a leader in the sales and distribution of bakery and confectionery products in northern Poland, with a strong position in the out-of-home channel. The former owners and senior executives of Ambasador 92 will remain at the company.

The business will be part of Orkla Food Ingredients, which last year acquired Northern Ireland-based sales and distribution company Gortrush Trading.

Orkla Food Ingredients EVP and CEO, Johan Clarin, said: “The purchase of Ambasador 92 increases our access to the growing out-of-home market.”

Clarin continued: “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 week, Orkla announced its acquisition of a majority 80% stake in Finnish foodservice business SeaGood Oy Fort Deli.

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

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

Ambasador 92 had a turnover of PLN 138 million ($36.8 million approx.) in 2020 and has grown 17% in the past five years, according to Orkla.

The financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed.