   FAQ
Why has VION signed an agreement to acquire Grampian -TOP-The UK is an extremely important market to VION and Grampian is a well-established food processor in the UK market operating in selected grocery market segments and that has experience and skills in the production and marketing of high quality food products. We believe that with VION expertise and investment in innovation and product development, that we can add value to our customers. At the heart of VION's business is a Passion for Better Food and Grampian's acquisition is key to developing this strategy. What are VION's plans for Grampian? -TOP-VION is committed to significant investment in Grampian in order to fulfil customer and consumer requirements in the marketplace. Will the business be run from the UK or the Netherlands? -TOP-A new division will be created with VION Food Group: VION UK. This division will be run from the UK by a UK based management. The Chief Executive of VION UK will be Mr Ton Christiaanse, Member of the VION N.V. Board of Management. Mr. Peter Barr, formerly Chairman of the Meat and Livestock Commission in the UK, will be appointed as non-executive Chairman of the Board of VION UK. What are your investment plans for Grampian? -TOP-VION has a track record of investment to develop its businesses. For example, six years ago, VION initiated a development programme for Key Country Foods, its UK bacon slicing operation and following significant investment, it now enjoys the position as a leading UK bacon business. Why is the acquisition good news for Grampian? -TOP-VION’s roots lie in agriculture through its sole shareholder, the Dutch Southern Farmers Union and it has a track record of growing and investing in food companies. For example, an investment programme in Key Country Foods has delivered strong business growth and a growth in its workforce from 300 to 500 employees over the last six years. The UK is an important market for VION and we see real opportunity for growth through investment. Where does VION see the opportunities for growth in the UK market? -TOP-The UK is a highly dynamic and highly segmented market but some trends are consistent. Demand for quality and value are constants within the marketplace. Convenience, health and enjoyment are key consumer drivers and moving forward, food processors must meet at least one of these criteria. Should UK farmers be pleased with the news? -TOP-With a farmers’ organisation as its shareholder, VION benefits from the long-term outlook taken by its owners. In order to effectively translate market demands, VION recognises the importance of developing and maintaining positive relationships with British farming. Farmers are important partners in our business, whether in the UK, the Netherlands or Germany and British produce will be a key element of the broader VION offer. Does the acquisition mean that you will increase the import of pork to the UK to replace UK pork? -TOP-The basic laws of supply and demand will continue to guide the market. A healthy supply of British pigs is a crucial factor in VION’s plans for the UK market and a sustainable UK farmer’s supply base is in the interests of all stakeholders. VION is market driven and lead by customer and consumer wishes. How many people do you employ in the UK? -TOP-VION employs almost 2,000 people in the UK. How many people does Grampian employ in the UK? -TOP-Grampian employs approximately 13,000 people in the UK. You have talked about signing a contract to acquire Grampian. When do you expect to complete? -TOP-We hope to complete within 60 days depending on the competition authorities.
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