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Hilton Foods has entered into a long-term joint venture with The National Agricultural Development Company (NADEC) in Saudi Arabia, expanding the company’s reach into the Middle East.

Hilton Foods will hold a 49% stake in the JV and contribute £6.5 million to an initial investment of SAR 60 million (approx. £13 million) for the new facility.

The partnership, set to last for ten years, combines Hilton Foods' expertise in meat processing and packaging with NADEC's established cattle operations in the region.

The JV will see Hilton Foods develop state-of-the-art facilities in Saudi Arabia, while NADEC will supply the joint venture and integrate its red meat products into its distribution network. The collaboration aims to enhance food security and support market growth in Saudi Arabia, in line with the Kingdom Vision 2030.

NADEC is focused on expanding its red meat product range to support the shift from in-store butchery to packaged meat in the local market. It supplies retailers and trade customers with local products under the NADEC brand and other brands in Saudi Arabia and neighbouring countries.

Steve Murrells, Hilton Foods CEO, said: “We are delighted to be forming this JV with NADEC, a highly respected and experienced local partner. This newly established partnership aims to enhance the quality, variety, and value available to consumers in the Saudi market."

“This is a JV which takes Hilton Foods into the Middle East for the very first time, and it brings together NADEC’s wide retail distribution network with our market-leading processing and packaging capabilities, underpinned by our shared consumer-led approach to innovation."

“Long-term, Hilton sees significant growth potential in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, leveraging its expertise and scalable technology to support local partners in these emerging growth markets.”

Solaiman Al-Twaijri, NADEC CEO, added: “This partnership represents a significant milestone for NADEC as we expand our portfolio to include high-quality packaged red meat products. By combining Hilton Foods’ global expertise with our strong presence in the Saudi market, we aim to deliver exceptional value to our consumers while supporting Vision 2030’s goals of food security and local production."

“This joint venture with Hilton Foods aligns perfectly with our mission to provide premium, locally produced options while driving economic growth and supporting national objectives.”

Operations are expected to commence in the second half of 2026. The JV is part of Hilton Foods' Sustainable Protein Plan. It is subject to regulatory approvals from Saudi authorities and other customary conditions.