Puratos said the addition of the Venlo-based producer reflects its commitment to driving health and wellbeing in the baking industry.
“In our view, seeds and grains are one of the core drivers in bakery thanks to their healthy halo, and they’re a fundamental aspect of our health & wellbeing strategy, which this acquisition really enhances,” said Bernard Bonjean, business category manager, grains & seeds at Puratos
A marriage of mindsets
According to Bonjean, the coupling of Schobbers’ heritage, passion and specialism with Puratos’ market reach and innovation power has benefits for both companies as well as their customers.
Family-owned Schobbers was founded 75 years ago, building a gold standard reputation with its portfolio of seeds, kernels, flakes, ancient grains and grits that sourced from all over the world and cleaned, checked, roasted and packed at its dedicated facility in the Netherlands.
From here, it supplies bakeries, confectioners, snack makers, the cereal and muesli sector and foodservice outlets.
Continuous innovation has always been a cornerstone of the company, which recently invested in advanced technology to inactivate seed germination.
This mindset aligns well with Puratos’ own ethos, according to Bonjean, while Puratos’ current range of premium softgrains and sprouted grains will be significantly expanded with Schobbers’ products.
“This really is an important moment for both companies,” he said.
“We’re very excited about how the synergies between Puratos and Schobbers will unlock further growth and value for our customers and – ultimately - consumers. Critically, with direct access to these important raw materials and better control over their supply chain, we’re also improving the sustainability credentials of these ingredients at Puratos.”
Ramping up innovation
Following the acquisition – of which financial terms were not disclosed – the Dutch company will operate under the name Puratos Schobbers from its current base in Venlo. Not only will its products be more widely available, but innovation is set to accelerate, thanks to the additional NPD resources and expertise of its new owner.
Sjoerd Schobbers, co-owner of Schobbers, said there will also be sourcing benefits the other way around.
“Being part of a larger, like-minded organisation ultimately benefits our customers and consumers alike. All of us at Schobbers are looking forward to the next stage in our growth as part of Puratos,” he said.
