The food and agritech holding MHP, the largest poultry producer in Ukraine, has submitted a binding offer to acquire UVESA Group (UVESA) — a leader in the Spanish food industry specializing in poultry and pork production, as reported by the agribusiness's press service.
"The agreement is an open tender offer directed to all current shareholders of UVESA, contingent upon meeting certain conditions, including but not limited to achieving a minimum acceptance threshold of 50.01%. Should regulatory approval be required to finalize the transaction, MHP will ensure compliance with all requirements," the statement notes.
The agribusiness emphasized that this acquisition represents another step for MHP in expanding its presence in international markets and strengthening the company's position as a significant player in the global food market, particularly in Europe. The expansion of international presence aligns with MHP's strategy to transform into an international culinary company operating in key regional markets worldwide.
MHP is one of Ukraine's largest investors. Since the onset of full-scale invasion, MHP has invested 14.8 billion UAH into business development in Ukraine.
"The primary priority for MHP remains the further development of business in Ukraine. We are focused on ensuring food security, stable operation of enterprises, bolstering the state's economy, supporting the military, our teams, and communities, and investing in Ukrainian businesses that enhance MHP's culinary ecosystem," the agribusiness highlighted, adding that, despite the war, MHP demonstrates resilience and growth potential, scaling its practices across foreign assets.
The company already has successful experience in acquiring and developing businesses in the European Union — in 2019, MHP Group acquired Perutnina Ptuj (Slovenia, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina).
MHP has significant expertise in poultry production — for the second consecutive year, the company has maintained its status as the largest poultry producer in Europe according to the WATT Poultry International ranking.
Moreover, thanks to MHP's business approaches, solutions, and team expertise, the European company has significantly improved its efficiency — EBIDTA for Perutnina Ptuj grew from $34 million in 2018 to $91 million in 2023.
"This experience will allow MHP to make a significant contribution to the agricultural and food sectors of Spain. The agreement will help meet the growing demand for high-quality and affordable food products worldwide. This step is crucial for strengthening the food security of the European Union and fully aligns with Ukraine's Euro-integration aspirations to become part of a unified European market," MHP concluded.