Japanese firm acquires UK freeze-dried foods producer

Japanese food manufacturerNagatanien has bought UK freeze-dried produce supplier Chaucer to expand routes to market for both companies.

The current management team will be retained with Chaucer CEO Andy Ducker continuing to lead the group in its new global strategy and wider customer base.

Already a leader in instant and freeze-dried Japanese food, the acquisition will also enable Tokyo-based Nagatanien to access clean label products and expand its global footprint.

Chaucer supplies freeze-dried products, including berries, to leading household brands including Unilever, Heinz, Kellogg's and Kraft. It was established as a specialist bakery and food manufacturer under the name of Knevitts.

Ducker said:“We are delighted to be partnering with Nagatanien. From inception, Nagatanien’s corporate philosophy has been “Aji-Hitosuji” translating to ‘naturally excellent taste’, and this is perfectly aligned with our own attitude of producing healthy ingredients to meet the growing trend towards healthy eating and nutrition.”