Each month, we review the latest M&A deals to gain a better understanding of sector dynamics. Here are those that caught our attention in July in Luxembourg, Belgium and France:
Luxembourg asset manager Qualion acquired by Crystal Group
Luxembourg-based asset manager Qualion, which also operates in Belgium, has been acquired by the French Crystal Group, backed by Goldman Sachs Private Equity and Seven2. Qualion manages €1.4 billion in assets for almost 1,000 families and generates sales of €11 million. This is the first international acquisition for Crystal, which has €25 billion in assets under management and €300 million in sales, and intends to build a leading European platform for private banking and life insurance.
Luxembourg companies PROgroup (building engineering) and ImpaKT (circular economy consulting) acquired by Sweco Group
Luxembourg-based PROgroup (an engineering consultancy specializing in the design and monitoring of construction projects) and ImpaKT (a consultancy specializing in the circular economy and sustainable management of urban projects) have been acquired by Sweco, a major European engineering group. The two structures, which bring together some 40 experts and generate sales of €5.1 million, will strengthen Sweco’s 106-strong workforce in Luxembourg, where the group is present via its subsidiary Betic. With worldwide sales of €2.7 billion, Sweco is pursuing a growth strategy in sustainable engineering.
Belgian frozen food specialist Clarebout Potatoes acquired by American J.R. Simplot Company
Flemish family group Clarebout Potatoes, a specialist in frozen potato products, has been acquired by the American J.R. Simplot Company, a major player in the agro-industry and the world’s leading supplier of French fries to the fast-food industry. With over 3,000 employees, 5 industrial sites in Europe and estimated sales in excess of €1 billion, Clarebout Potatoes is one of the world leaders in its sector. The operation aims to create a major global player with 23 production sites, subject to regulatory approvals.
Belgian forwarder Gheeraert acquires compatriot De Rudder
Belgian transport group Gheeraert acquires compatriotDe Rudder, active in Kortrijk (West Flanders) and Vilvoorde (north of Brussels), with 145 employees, 125 trucks and 55,000 m² of warehouse space. Specialized in distribution and complementary logistics, De Rudder reinforces Gheeraert’s offer and territorial coverage. The operation, finalized in mid-July, brings the total workforce to almost 350, consolidating the group’s position on the Belgian market.
Le Coq Sportif, placed in receivership, taken over by a consortium
Based in Romilly-sur-Seine near Troyes (Eastern France), the Le Coq Sportif brand is being taken over by Franco-Swiss entrepreneur Dan Mamane, with the support of the Mirabaud Patrimoine Vivant fund and the Japanese group Itochu, owner of the brand in Asia. The plan calls for an injection of €70 million to relaunch the industrial facilities, pay off part of the debts and preserve 200 jobs at this iconic sportswear brand, which was placed in receivership in November 2024.
Lille-based strategic consulting firm Altera joins the Willing Group
#M&A #Mergers & Acquisitions #Market trends #Corporate strategy #Luxembourg #Belgium #France
Sources: Paperjam, L’Echo, Les Echos, S&P Capital IQ Pro
