Brazilian biscuits market leader M. Dias Branco (MDB) has acquired local rival Pelágio Participações for BRL240m (US$130.2m).

Pelágio’s cookies, crackers, pasta and snacks brands – Estrela, Pelággio and Salsito – have “an optimum presence in areas in the north and north-east of Brazil”, said Álvaro de Paula, MDB’s investment director.

MDB said the deal would also lead to efficiency gains within its crushing units and vegetable shortening plant.

“The company foresees a good synergy potential in relation to costs and expenses in the short term, given that we can immediately supply our main raw materials (flour and fat), expanding our verticality and contributing to operational cost reduction,” de Paula added.

Through this acquisition, MDB’s business will see its share of Brazil’s cookies and crackers sector grow from 24.1% to 25.3%, according to AC Nielsen data.

MDB’s share of the pasta market will increase from 24.5% to 25.2%.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

“The company continues to be on alert for acquisition opportunities,” de Paula said. MDB is said to have made a bid for local biscuits manufacturer, Marilan, which is currently for sale.