March 7, 2007

Belgium's Ter Beke posts income gains in 2006
 

Belgian meat processor Ter Beke saw total turnover increase by 38.3 percent from Euro 236.2 million in 2005 to Euro 326.7 million last year.

In its annual report, the company reported its meat division's merging with the Pluma group was the most significant event in 2006.

The division saw a strong sales increase of 58.5 percent, realized mainly through the merger of the division with the Pluma group and the success of sliced and packaged meats.

The company saw strong volume growth in France despite increased margin pressure and significant inefficiency at the production facility in Alby-sur-Cheran, which led to a weak result in the fourth quarter.

In 2007 Ter Beke said it will continue to invest in the efficiency and expansion of its production facilities and the reinforcement of the market position of its two branches.

The group expects to be able to further benefit from the merger of its processed meats activities with Pluma.

The probable acquisition of Normandie Plats Cuisines is being carefully considered and the effects of this possible acquisition cannot be determined at this moment, Ter Beke said.