Private equity firms Blackstone Group and PAI Partners are reported to be seeking to sell British and international biscuits and snacks manufacturer United Biscuits for £2b or more. In 2009, United Biscuits increased EBITDA by 13.7% to £223.4m on turnover up 5% to £1.26b.
United Biscuits is one of the world’s leading branded biscuits and snacks businesses. The group’s products range from biscuits and crackers to cakes and savoury snacks and its portfolio of brands includes McVitie’s, Jacob’s, Carr’s, McCoy’s, Hula Hoops, McVitie’s Jaffa Cakes, KP, Mini Cheddars, go ahead!, Verkade, Sultana, BN, and Delacre.
United Biscuits holds leading or strong number two positions in its core markets of the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, France, Belgium and Ireland. Moreover its brands and products have global appeal, and the group’s rapidly growing international business unit serves consumers from North America to the Middle East, Africa, and Australia.
The sale process is due to begin in the autumn and to be concluded early next year. Blackstone Group and PAI Partners acquired United Biscuits for £1.6b four years ago.
