Aalsmeer, Netherlands-based Oma Bobs, which produces a wide range of frozen croquettes, bitterballen and other traditional Dutch snack food items, has been acquired by Belgian snacks specialist Beltaste-Vanreusel. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Founded almost two decades ago by Jurgen and Saskia Ottenhoff, Oma Bobs won the FD Gazellen Award in 2015 as one of the fastest growing companies in Holland. Its extensive product line runs the gamut from shrimp croquettes, cheese/rucola croquettes and chorizo mini croquettes to chicken and mushroom bitterballen, Thai Green Curry Bites, Kaasrolletjes, Mini-Frankdallen and much more.
Distributed through foodservice, retail and vending channels, Oma Bobs snacks are prepared by frying in oil heated to 180 degrees Celsius. Frying time varies depending on whether the product has first been thawed or is still frozen.
“We are very excited to acquire Oma Bobs and are proud that Jurgen and Saskia have given us the confidence to continue their success story,” said Paul-Emmanuel Vanreusel, managing director of Hamont, Belgium-headquartered Beltaste. “Oma Bobs has unique expertise, which makes their products among the best on the market. Our intention is to continue the company’s growth trajectory, while retaining its independent, unique and artisanal character.”
The Vanreusel snack assortment of Beltaste, which has marketed since 1953, is well known in Belgium, the Netherland, France and Hungary. Among products offered are spring rolls, croquettes, sates, sausages, hamburgers, meatballs, chicken nuggets and chicken bites. They are produced at factories in Hamont and Mòrahalom, Hungary.
