Kansas City-based Shick, which supplies equipment to sectors including the bakery industry, will work together with French ingredient automation equipment firm Esteve to supply ingredient handling systems to a global customer base
The two companies will operate manufacturing plants in North America and Europe and will implement both Rockwell and Siemens system control platforms.
Shick Solutions CEO Joe Ungashick told BakeryandSnacks that he and his brother Mark will take on advisory board roles at Bretèche Group, while their other sibling Matt Ungashick will continue as key account manager. All three are sons of Shick founder William Ungashick.
“There will be no job losses as a result of the merger,” he said.
Shick Solutions president Tim Cook will take on responsibilities as CEO and become part of the Bretèche management team. Cook said he was excited about the opportunity to join Bretèche as it gives the company a platform to expand globally.
“The acquisition will bring about many benefits for both companies in terms of technology, geography, culture and expertise, especially with our alliance with Esteve,” he added.
Eight manufacturing plants
Bretèche Group has eight plants in France, Germany and the Czech Republic and, with the acquisition, has gained operations in North America for sales, technical support and aftermarket service.
Bretèche Group CEO Didier Soumet said the company wants to expand its supply of complete dough make-up technology in the North American market.
“We have long wanted to increase our presence in North America. By acquiring Shick, not only will we have a strong base of operations in the United States to support our brands but we will have a partner that is closely tied to and aligned with the food industry there,” he said.
Shick Solutions will be exhibiting at IBIE 2016 (October 8-11) in Las Vegas.