Introduction

The global meat industry is experiencing a wave of mergers and acquisitions as top players in the market look to expand their reach and increase their market share. In this report, we will explore the top 10 meat brands that are actively pursuing mergers and acquisitions to grow their businesses. We will delve into the specific details of these deals, including financials, volumes, and other relevant data. By analyzing these mergers and acquisitions, we can gain valuable insights into the current state of the meat industry and the strategies that leading companies are employing to stay competitive.

1. Tyson Foods

Tyson Foods is one of the largest meat companies in the world, with a focus on chicken, beef, and pork products. In recent years, Tyson Foods has made several strategic acquisitions to strengthen its market position. One notable acquisition was the purchase of Hillshire Brands in 2014 for $8.55 billion. This deal allowed Tyson Foods to expand its portfolio of branded products and increase its presence in the packaged food market.

2. JBS

JBS is another major player in the meat industry, with a strong presence in beef, pork, and poultry. The company has been actively pursuing mergers and acquisitions to expand its global footprint. In 2017, JBS acquired the majority stake in Pilgrim’s Pride, a leading poultry producer, for $1.3 billion. This acquisition helped JBS strengthen its position in the poultry market and diversify its product offerings.

3. Cargill

Cargill is a multinational food corporation that is involved in various segments of the agricultural industry, including meat processing. The company has been actively acquiring smaller meat companies to expand its market presence. In 2016, Cargill acquired Five Star Custom Foods, a manufacturer of cooked protein products, to enhance its capabilities in the food service sector.

4. Smithfield Foods

Smithfield Foods is one of the largest pork producers in the United States, with a focus on fresh and packaged pork products. The company has been involved in several high-profile mergers and acquisitions to strengthen its position in the market. In 2013, Smithfield Foods was acquired by WH Group, a Chinese meat company, for $4.7 billion. This deal allowed Smithfield Foods to gain access to the growing Chinese market and expand its global reach.

5. Hormel Foods

Hormel Foods is a leading producer of packaged meats, including brands like Spam and Skippy. The company has been actively pursuing acquisitions to diversify its product portfolio and expand its market reach. In 2015, Hormel Foods acquired Applegate Farms, a producer of natural and organic meats, for $775 million. This acquisition helped Hormel Foods tap into the growing demand for natural and organic food products.

6. Conagra Brands

Conagra Brands is a major player in the packaged food industry, with a focus on meat products like frozen meals and snacks. The company has been acquiring smaller meat companies to expand its product offerings and reach new customers. In 2018, Conagra Brands acquired Pinnacle Foods, a leading producer of frozen and packaged foods, for $10.9 billion. This deal allowed Conagra Brands to strengthen its position in the frozen food market and increase its presence in the grocery aisle.

7. Pilgrim’s Pride

Pilgrim’s Pride is a leading poultry producer with operations in the United States, Mexico, and Europe. The company has been actively pursuing mergers and acquisitions to expand its market share and diversify its product offerings. In 2020, Pilgrim’s Pride acquired Tulip Ltd, a British pork producer, for $354 million. This deal allowed Pilgrim’s Pride to enter the pork market and broaden its product portfolio.

8. Perdue Farms

Perdue Farms is a family-owned poultry company that is known for its commitment to quality and innovation. The company has been involved in several mergers and acquisitions to expand its business and reach new markets. In 2019, Perdue Farms acquired Panorama Meats, a producer of organic grass-fed beef, to meet the growing demand for sustainable and ethically sourced meat products.

9. Maple Leaf Foods

Maple Leaf Foods is a Canadian meat company that is focused on sustainable and ethically sourced products. The company has been actively pursuing mergers and acquisitions to expand its presence in the market. In 2018, Maple Leaf Foods acquired Field Roast Grain Meat Co, a producer of plant-based meat alternatives, for $120 million. This acquisition helped Maple Leaf Foods tap into the growing demand for plant-based protein products.

10. OSI Group

OSI Group is a global meat processing company that supplies meat products to leading food service and retail brands. The company has been expanding its operations through mergers and acquisitions to strengthen its market position. In 2016, OSI Group acquired Flagship Europe, a producer of frozen food products, to increase its presence in the European market. This deal allowed OSI Group to diversify its product offerings and reach new customers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the top 10 meat brands are actively pursuing mergers and acquisitions to grow their businesses and stay competitive in the market. These deals provide valuable insights into the current state of the meat industry and the strategies that leading companies are employing to expand their reach and increase their market share. By analyzing these mergers and acquisitions, we can better understand the trends shaping the meat industry and the opportunities for growth in the future.