Zalmhuys Group acquires majority stake in BML Food Group

Zalmhuys Group has acquired a majority stake in BML Food Group. This gives the Hague-based importer room for further international growth. Zalmhuys is strengthening its position in the European fish and seafood market. Directors Ben Slothouber and Graeme Kerr will remain involved with BML. Both will also retain a minority stake in the company.

BML to remain independent

BML Food Group was founded in 2007. The company imports and distributes shrimp and frozen fish and seafood products. Based in The Hague, BML serves more than 360 customers. Its cold storage warehouses are located in Lekkerkerk and Breda. BML exports its products to more than 30 countries. Its portfolio includes private-label products and products sold under the Ben’s Easy Kitchen brand.

BML supplies wholesalers, distributors, manufacturers and retailers, among others. It also serves organizations operating under the cash-and-carry model. Slothouber intends to gradually scale back his involvement due to his age. The shareholders therefore sought a partner for the company’s next growth phase. Preserving BML’s culture, working methods, expertise and market position was a key priority. 

Shrimp expertise

Zalmhuys Group supplies fresh, frozen and smoked fish and seafood. The Urk-based group employs approximately 600 people. Its specialized companies jointly supply a broad product range to customers worldwide. 

BML brings shrimp expertise and an international supplier network. The company also has a broad European customer base. This further expands Zalmhuys’ expertise in shrimp. It also strengthens the group’s range of value-added seafood products. Following the transaction, Zalmhuys Group expects revenue of approximately €600 million. 

Collaboration behind the scenes

BML will not be absorbed into another Zalmhuys company. It will continue to operate independently under Slothouber and Kerr’s leadership. The two companies can share knowledge and market intelligence behind the scenes. They can also jointly offer relevant product ranges. In specific areas, Zalmhuys can also combine its purchasing power.

Marktlink advised the shareholders on the transaction and spoke with several strategic parties during the sale process. The shareholders ultimately selected Zalmhuys Group. The strategic fit, company culture and personal connection all played an important role.