News Meat
Judge rules in Gosschalk debacle
The takeover of the bankrupt slaughterhouse Gosschalk from Epe by Fuite Group is finalized, now that the WHOA procedure has been approved by the court. The takeover news was announced in March, but due to legal proceedings the settlement took a long time. Affected livestock traders, who were often still owed tons of money from Gosschalk, are entitled to a compensation of 20%.
The judge's ruling can bring a long-standing chapter to a close. This started at the beginning of this year when it turned out that Gosschalk had run into financial problems due to the bankruptcy of a Danish meat buyer. VanDrie Group would then take over Gosschalk, but this purchase contract was cancelled disbanded. Not much later this became apparent with Fuite Group new buyer was found.
20% compensation
The bankruptcy of Gosschalk left several livestock traders behind, because they were still owed money from the slaughterhouse. This often involved several tonnes, or even more for some large suppliers. When asked, an affected pig trader indicates that 20% of the outstanding amount will be reimbursed. He looks back with mixed feelings on the case, which, according to him, only has losers. He is actually relieved to get some money, although the vast majority of the amount is lost. He indicates that he is happy with the role that Fuite has played. Without this buyer, compensation for the loss would probably not have been possible.
'Strategic decision'
Fuite is also pleased that after months of uncertainty, things have finally become clear. They indicate that the acquisition of Gosschalk is a strategic decision. The aim is to continue building an integrated chain focused on meat with added value. Fuite is already active in veal and chicken meat and is now expanding this with beef. Initially, Fuite in Epe will continue the slaughter of cattle supplied by various livestock traders. Of the more than 10.000 cattle slaughtered every week in the Netherlands, Gosschalk has a market share of 27%. Optionally, the calves from Fuite Veal in Epe can also be slaughtered. This is now happening in Oldenzaal. Fuite has stopped slaughtering pigs, as Gosschalk did in the past. The Gosschalk name will also disappear and be replaced by FamilyBeef.
Wouter Job
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