A Partnership Born from Crisis (Image Credits: Pexels)
France – LDC Group, Europe’s largest poultry producer, obtained Rennes Commercial Court approval on February 24, 2026, for a settlement enabling full acquisition of export specialist France Poultry from Saudi Arabia’s Almunajem Group.[1][2]
A Partnership Born from Crisis
The agreement traces back to 2018, when LDC and Almunajem collaborated to rescue assets from the bankrupt French poultry firm Doux SA. That joint effort preserved jobs and production capacity in Brittany amid a challenging restructuring.
France Poultry emerged that May as Almunajem’s subsidiary, taking over Doux’s export slaughterhouse in Châteaulin, Finistère. The facility focused on processing small chickens for freezing and shipment abroad, securing trademarks like Doux and Supreme for Gulf markets.[2]
Meanwhile, upstream assets formed Yer Breizh, a hatchery and feed operation supplying the plant. This setup initially supported export growth but faced headwinds over time.
Settlement Details and Timeline
The court endorsed the deal under a conciliation procedure overseen by judicial administrator Sophie Gautier. LDC committed to buying 100% of France Poultry’s shares by December 31, 2026, alongside 35.5% of Yer Breizh by March 11, 2026.[1]
France Poultry employs 314 people, while Yer Breizh has 95 staff. Financial terms remained undisclosed in announcements.
- Full control of France Poultry by end of 2026
- Stake in key supplier Yer Breizh secured soon
- Court validation ensures smooth transition
- Employee and farmer support measures planned
Export Struggles Prompt Strategic Shift
France Poultry shipped frozen whole chickens primarily to Gulf Cooperation Council countries and Yemen. Its Châteaulin plant suited export volumes but proved mismatched for domestic French needs.[2]
Recent economic pressures rendered GCC sales unprofitable. LDC chief financial officer Natalia Bernard noted, “France Poultry’s historical activity on the GCC markets is not profitable under current economic conditions.”[2]
The acquisition addresses urgent reorganization needs. Operations will adapt gradually without abrupt closure.
Future Investments and Sector Impact
Starting in 2027, grand export activities will redirect to alternative markets before phasing out. France Poultry plans diversification within the existing site.
LDC outlined construction of a new slaughterhouse for French-origin chicken, potentially operational by early 2028. This responds to rising domestic consumption and aims to anchor production in Brittany.[1]
Consultations with employee representatives and poultry farmers will shape support during transition. The moves promise to fortify the French poultry industry against imports while sustaining local employment.
Key Takeaways
- LDC gains full ownership to reorient export assets toward sustainable French production.
- New infrastructure targets growing demand, with operations ramping up by 2028.
- Deal preserves over 400 jobs and bolsters Brittany’s agri-food ecosystem.
This acquisition positions LDC to meet evolving market demands and reinforce national self-sufficiency in poultry. What do you think of LDC’s strategy to pivot from exports? Tell us in the comments.
