MHP’s Rapid Push into Spanish Poultry (Image Credits: Pixabay)
Spain – Uvesa, the established poultry group controlled by Ukrainian agribusiness leader MHP, reached an agreement to acquire Payán Hermanos, a respected player in the Spanish market.[1] This transaction underscores ongoing consolidation efforts in Europe’s poultry industry, where firms seek scale amid shifting consumer demands and supply chain pressures. The move follows MHP’s deepened investment in Uvesa last year, positioning the combined entity for stronger regional dominance.
MHP’s Rapid Push into Spanish Poultry
London-listed MHP completed its acquisition of over 92% of Uvesa shares in August 2025, marking a pivotal expansion from its Ukrainian base.[2][3] The Ukrainian firm, Europe’s largest poultry producer by some measures, had initially secured a 41% stake earlier that year before regulatory approvals allowed full control.[4] Uvesa, headquartered in Tudela in northern Spain’s Navarra region, brought decades of expertise in poultry and pork production to the partnership.
With more than 3,000 employees, Uvesa operates as a key food industry leader in Spain, boasting over 60 years in the sector.[5][6] MHP’s involvement promised operational innovations and growth acceleration, as noted by company leadership at the time. The latest deal with Payán Hermanos builds directly on this foundation, extending Uvesa’s footprint southward.
Spotlight on Payán Hermanos
Founded in 1953, Payán Hermanos maintains its base in Maracena, Granada, in Andalusia’s sunny south.[1] The firm specializes in a variety of poultry products tailored for local markets, earning recognition for its sector knowledge over seven decades. Its operations complement Uvesa’s northern strengths, potentially creating synergies in processing and distribution.
This acquisition aligns with trends of increased concentration among Spain’s meat integrators.[7] Smaller, specialized producers like Payán face pressures from rising costs and retail consolidation, making partnerships with larger groups attractive. Details on financial terms remain undisclosed, though the deal awaits standard regulatory scrutiny.[8]
Strategic Vision from the Top
Uvesa president Antonio Sánchez highlighted the deal’s importance. “Payán is a company with extensive experience and recognised expertise in the poultry sector,” he stated. “Its integration into UVESA will strengthen our operations and create new opportunities for sustainable development.”[1]
Sánchez further described the move as “a natural next step for Uvesa following its integration into the MHP group, as MHP continues to focus on strengthening the companies within the group and supporting their long-term development.” Earlier, upon MHP’s stake increase, he had emphasized growth potential through the parent’s operational know-how. These comments reflect confidence in blended expertise driving efficiency and market share gains.
Shaping Spain’s Competitive Poultry Arena
The Spanish poultry market, a cornerstone of the nation’s protein supply, witnesses frequent mergers as firms chase economies of scale. Uvesa-Payán stands out amid this wave, potentially enhancing supply chain resilience from farm to table.[9] MHP’s cross-border strategy counters domestic challenges in Ukraine while tapping stable European demand.
Key aspects of such deals include:
- Expanded geographic coverage, linking Navarra’s industrial base with Andalusia’s production hubs.
- Enhanced product portfolios for diverse retail and foodservice clients.
- Focus on sustainability, as echoed in leadership statements.
- Job continuity for thousands across both firms.
- Regulatory navigation to ensure competition compliance.
While completion timelines stay unspecified, precedents suggest swift closure post-approvals.[10]
Key Takeaways
- MHP’s control of Uvesa since 2025 accelerates Spanish expansion.
- Payán Hermanos adds southern expertise and local market access.
- Deal emphasizes sustainable growth without disclosed financials.
This acquisition signals MHP’s commitment to European poultry leadership, blending Eastern innovation with Iberian tradition. As integration unfolds, it could redefine competitive dynamics. What impact do you foresee for Spanish consumers and producers? Share your views in the comments.
