The J.R. Simplot Company and Clarebout Potatoes announced this week Simplot’s intention to acquire the operating business of Clarebout, in a move that unites two family-owned leaders in the frozen potato industry.
The transaction, expected to close in 2025 pending regulatory approvals, will significantly expand Simplot’s footprint in Europe and enhance its global processing and distribution capabilities. The combined organization will operate 23 production facilities worldwide and offer localized supply to customers across key global markets.
“This is an exciting time for Simplot,” said Graham Dugdale, President of Simplot’s Global Food business. “We are thrilled about the synergy that Clarebout brings to our business, which not only expands our ability to serve the European market but brings together a pair of family-owned companies who align closely in core values and our commitment to customers, employees, and the communities where we operate.”
Clarebout Potatoes, headquartered in Nieuwkerke, West Flanders, Belgium, has built a strong reputation in Europe as a premier producer of frozen potato products. The company shares a deeply rooted family business ethos with Simplot, a privately held agribusiness giant headquartered in Boise, Idaho.
“It’s a coming together of heart and mind,” said Jan Clarebout, CEO of Clarebout Potatoes. “With Simplot, we share the common values of family businesses. Simplot, like Clarebout, started from scratch and managed to grow while remaining faithful to principles as essential as respect for people and the Earth. We could have continued on our own, but the economic reality of the world, and a form of common sense, led us to come together. It’s a choice for the future—and a sustainable future.”
The acquisition will not only maintain Clarebout’s existing operations, but may also lead to expanded staffing and facility investments across Europe. Both companies emphasized that the merger is rooted in a shared long-term vision to address the evolving global challenges in agriculture, food production, and sustainability.
BofA Securities served as exclusive financial advisor to Simplot, with legal representation provided by Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP and Loyens & Loeff BV/SRL. Lazard acted as exclusive financial advisor to Clarebout, with legal counsel from Eubelius.
With this strategic acquisition, Simplot—already a dominant player in North America and Asia—extends its leadership position in Europe, creating a comprehensive, resilient global supply network for frozen potato products and advancing its mission to feed a growing world sustainably.
By: BSH staff