FDBusiness.com

Hilton Food Group has signed an agreement with Modelo Continente Hipermercados (Sonae) to supply of retail packaged fresh meat into Sonae stores in Portugal. It is expected that the agreement will lead to the formation of a joint venture with Sonae in due course.

Under the terms of the agreement, Hilton will cooperate with Sonae for an initial period of 6–9 months to improve the production facilities located in Portugal. Products supplied from the facility will include a wide range of packaged meat. It is expected that after the initial period of co-operation, Hilton and Sonae will form a joint venture to implement this partnership.

Robert Watson, chief executive of Hilton Food Group, comments: “This is an exciting growth opportunity for Hilton Foods to work with Sonae, Portugal’s leading food retailer, utilising our tried and tested business model in the Portuguese market. As we have previously demonstrated, our flexible and versatile business model enables us to meet local requirements with customers in each country and as such, we are able to enter new territories successfully. We continue to look for further opportunities for geographic expansion.”

Eunice Silva, commercial director of Sonae, says: “We are pleased to be partnering with Hilton Foods and look forward to the benefits and expertise that will enable us to continue delivering the highest quality at the best prices for our customers. Continente will strengthen its leadership in the development of innovation and in the sustainable promotion of the agro food business in Portugal.”