H2 Equity Partners has acquired a controlling stake in Klass Puul BV, a Volendam, Holland-based seafood packer that processes North Sea prawns as well as tropical shrimp in Morocco, Belgium, Germany and Denmark as well as in the Netherlands. Founded in 1968, the company employs approximately 3,500 people and generated sales of almost EUR 200 million last year.
While terms of the deal were not disclosed, it was revealed that an unspecified number of shares remain in the hands of the founding family Mooijer, as well as the company’s management.
Maiko van der Meer has been appointed as general director. Under his leadership and the advice of former CEO Sander van den Berg, who is now serving as financial director, investments will be made to enhance international marketing and sales efforts, product development and production technology.
Evert Mooijer, current owner, stated: “Klaas Puul has a lot of untapped potential, but there are no successors within the family to realize this potential. Together with H2 Equity Partners, we want to realize this potential, allowing us to be an even better partner to our customers, suppliers and employees.”
Van der Meer commented: “I am looking forward to working at Klaas Puul with Sander van den Berg and the team, and to further expand the company – for instance by offering distinctive sustainable products to retailers and consumers.”
Rutger Jan Vlek, investment director at Amsterdam-headquartered H2 Equity Partners, said: “Klaas Puul has a strong market position and a lot of improvement and growth potential. Together with the Mooijer family, the management and all employees, we will realize this potential. Reinforcing and expanding a family business together with a founding family, by providing capital and active support, is a characteristic investment for H2.”
