The JR Simplot Company, a privately held global food and agriculture company headquartered in Boise, Idaho, USA, has completed its acquisition of Clarebout Potatoes, a leading European producer of private label frozen potato products based in Belgium.
“This milestone marks the successful culmination of a strategic acquisition announced earlier this year that brings together two family-owned companies with deep agricultural roots,” stated a press release issued by Simplot on October 31.
“We are proud to welcome Clarebout to Simplot. This acquisition strengthens our global footprint and enhances our ability to serve existing and new customers,” said Garrett Lofto, president and chief executive officer of Simplot. “Clarebout’s legacy of excellence and innovation aligns perfectly with Simplot’s values and vision for the future.”
Founded by Jan Clarebout in Nieuwkerke, West Flanders, 37 years ago, Clarebout operates three factories in Belgium and one in France that produce a wide range of products ranging from french fries and wedges to roast potatoes and slices for foodservice and retail customers in more than 120 countries.
“Joining Simplot is a natural evolution for us,” said CEO Clarebout. “We’ve found a partner that shares our values, our respect for people and the planet, and our ambition to grow sustainably. Together, we are better equipped to meet the challenges and opportunities of a changing global food landscape.”
The acquisition increases Simplot’s global frozen potato processing capabilities, with five new locations bringing the total number of food production facilities to 23 worldwide. Expansion into Europe enables it to provide existing and new customers with localized supply and enhanced service across key markets around the world.
“This is an exciting time,” said Graham Dugdale, president of Simplot Global Food. “Clarebout brings complementary capabilities and a strong European presence that will help us better serve our customers and communities. We look forward to building on this foundation together.”
While financial terms of the purchase were not disclosed, Belgian media reports have estimated the value of the deal at between €1–4 billion ($1.1–4.4 billion). Clarebout generated revenues of €1.1 billion in 2024, according to reports in RetailDetail EU, which noted a rise in net profit to €126 million.
