Müller secures approval to acquire Polish seafood producer Graal

GERMANY – German dairy giant Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller has obtained regulatory clearance from Polish competition authorities to acquire seafood producer Graal.

This move is aimed at expanding its presence in the European fish and seafood market.

The deal between Müller and Abris Capital Partners, Graal’s private-equity owners, was first revealed in February 2023.

In a joint statement, both Müller and Abris Capital confirmed the completion of the transaction, with Müller highlighting the acquisition as a pivotal step for the future of Lisner.

Abris Capital, which first invested in Graal in 2017 by acquiring a majority share, has since worked closely with the company’s founder and CEO, Bogusław Kowalski, in executing a full buyout.

During Abris’ tenure, Graal expanded its portfolio, supplying both branded and private-label canned and chilled fish products, along with ready meals under various brands including Graal, Neptun, and Kuchnia Staropolska.

Wojciech Jezierski, a partner at Abris Capital, reflected on the firm’s involvement with Graal, noting the company’s development into a market leader with a diverse product range.

“Our partnership with Graal and Mr. Kowalski has helped establish a dominant player in the sector,” Jezierski said.

Graal currently operates three manufacturing sites and a distribution center in Poland, employing more than 2,200 people.

The company exports its products to over 30 countries and posted sales of 1.6 billion zlotys (US$388 M) in 2022, according to Abris.

The acquisition aligns with Müller’s broader strategy to expand into the seafood sector, particularly in Germany.

Having successfully dominated the dairy industry, Müller is now eyeing growth in the seafood market, which is projected to reach US$8.44 billion in revenue in 2024.

Meanwhile, Müller has also teamed up with Myprotein, a leading nutrition brand, to create a new range of high-protein yogurts and desserts.

The collaboration seeks to capitalize on the growing demand for convenient, protein-rich products, as health-conscious consumers increasingly look for nutritious options that fit their active lifestyles.

The high-protein segment within the chilled yogurt and potted desserts category is growing at a rapid pace, far outpacing the overall market.

By addressing common shopper concerns, such as taste and product accessibility, Müller and Myprotein aim to drive further growth in the protein category.

According to the companies, both brands bring their expertise to the table: Müller is renowned for its delicious dairy products, while Myprotein is a trusted name in the sports nutrition world.

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