Sofina Foods expands in Europe with acquisition of Finnebrogue

Sofina Foods has acquired UK meat processor Finnebrogue as it looks to continue its “ambitious” growth strategy across Europe.

Canada-headquartered Sofina Foods said it has bought family-owned Finnebrogue through its European business unit but did not disclose the financial terms.

Finnebrogue produces a range of food products, including outdoor-bred pork, sausages, bacon and ham, as well as plant-based alternatives.

Established in 1991, the company employs around 1,200 people across four facilities in County Down, Northern Ireland.

Sofina Foods, which supplies both branded and own-label seafood and pork products, said that post-deal its European operations will now employ over 9,000 people across 27 sites.

Michael Latifi, the founder, chairman and CEO of Sofina Foods, said in a statement the acquisition will allow Sofina Foods to “continue our journey of ambitious expansion”.

He added: “We have created a global foundation for continued growth, with a history of excellence in food production and processing spanning over 30 years.

“Both Sofina Foods and Finnebrogue share a common culture of excellence, discipline and integrity and I look forward to building on the strengths of both companies.”

Sofina Foods claims its pork division is one of the largest processors and suppliers across the UK and Ireland, while the company also supplies chilled and frozen seafood, including under the Young’s brand. In May, Sofina snapped up Canada-based poultry cooperative Exceldor.  

Roger Burnley, the chairman of Finnebrogue, said: “I’m delighted that Finnebrogue is joining Sofina Foods Europe, and I know that this great business will continue to flourish as part of the Sofina family, who’s purpose-driven values align closely with our own, unlocking new opportunities for our people, our products and our customers.”

Ash Amirahmadi, the CEO for Sofina Foods in Europe, added: “This is an exciting step forward for Sofina Foods Europe. Finnebrogue is a hugely successful, award-winning business with similar values and principles to Sofina Foods Europe.”

Christine Lynn, the co-founder of Finnebrogue whose husband Denis was killed in a tragic accident in 2021, said: “My late husband Denis and I started Finnebrogue Venison in 1991.

“With Denis’ vision and innovation, the business grew into one of the leading food companies in Northern Ireland, making food the best it could be, without being bound by the way it had always been done, and creating over 1,200 jobs along the way.”