Nelson-based Sugden Ltd has further strengthened its position as the world’s leading manufacturer of hotplates with the Intellectual Property (IP) acquisition of Netherlands-based Vanderpol Waffle Systems for an undisclosed sum.
Vanderpol Waffle Systems, previously owned by AMF Den Boer BV, is part of AMF Bakery Systems Europe BV and is renowned for being a market-leading manufacturer of waffle and funcake production lines with a worldwide clientele.
Already designing custom hotplate plants used by producers globally to mass-produce Pancakes, English Muffins and Crumpets, the deal means Sugden can now manufacture, supply and install a wide range of industry-leading waffle and funcake systems under the Sugden-Vanderpol range.
As well as expanding the company’s offering, the deal is also expected to create further jobs at its 35,000sq ft, state of the art production facility in Nelson, Lancashire, where the waffle and funcake systems will be produced.
The acquisition comes as Sugden looks to fuel further growth in 2021, both in the UK and internationally, building on strong momentum generated over the last five years which has seen the company double in size, with turnover growing to £5.5 million over 2019/20.
Commenting on the acquisition, Managing Director of Sugden Ltd, Chris Baldwin said: “It is a very proud moment to announce this acquisition and be in a position to carry on supporting and supplying market-leading waffle lines under the Sugden-Vanderpol range.
“This strengthens our product range and market position and ensures growth and security throughout the business.”
Vincent Langelaar, Vice President Operations EMEAAP Region at AMF Bakery Systems Europe BV, said: “AMF and Sugden have forged a strong and successful history offering complete English Muffin systems to the global baking industry. Through this relationship, we have recognised that Sugden can bring tremendous focus and innovation to the Vanderpol waffle griddle product line, and we look forward to fully supporting this transition and continuing to partner with them to serve common customer projects in the future.”
Founded in 1972, Sugden Ltd is a world-leader in the design and manufacture of hotplate plants used to produce products such as pancakes, English muffins, crumpets, potato cakes, Welsh cakes and soda bread.
Over almost half a century, Sugden Ltd has built an international reputation based on its industry-leading capabilities and quality, custom-designed products, all of which are made in Britain. The business has doubled in size over the last five years in response to surging demand for its products from an international client base that includes well-known food producers in Europe, United States of America, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
In August 2019, Sugden Ltd moved into a 35,000sq ft state-of-the-art new factory in Nelson, Lancashire, and the company continues to invest significantly in its people and technologies to ensure its capabilities and offering remains industry leading.
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Media contact
Kiran Grewal
Editor, International Bakery
Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922
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