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European family-owned food group Vandemoortele has acquired Lizzi, a speciality producer and distributor of frozen bakery products, from Forno d’Asolo.

The acquisition – the financial terms of which were not disclosed – sees Vandemoortele further its investment into the Italian frozen bakery market, aiming to accelerate its growth. It follows Vandemoortele’s purchase of Dolciaria Acquaviva in June 2024.

Lizzi has a turnover of over €70 million, employing over 240 people and operating from its four production plants in Northern Italy. The company distributes its products both in foodservice and large-scale retail. Its product portfolio includes the Lizzi pastry specialities, the sourdough breads and focaccia of Forno della Rotonda, and the natural breads and Piedmont specialities of Spar.

Vandemoortele, founded in 1899 in Belgium, is a manufacturer and seller of frozen baked goods and plant-based food solutions. It operates in 12 countries within the EU, the US and Asia. Its brand portfolio in Italy – its second-largest market – includes Agritech, Lanterna, Acquaviva and Banquet D’or, Doony’s and Patisserie du Chef.

Yvon Guerin, CEO of Vandemoortele, said: “We are delighted to welcome Lizzi into the Vandemoortele family. Along with Dolciaria Acquaviva in our group, this strategic acquisition further reinforces our presence in the Italian market, in line with our vision of providing exceptional products and experiences to our customers.”

Peter Boone, managing director for bakery products at Vandemoortele, added: “With our Italian Team, we are particularly proud of this further step forward for our growth. We will be able to offer our Italian customers an even wider range of specialty pastries and breakfast pastries, artisan breads, pizza and focaccias, covering the whole of Italy.”

The transaction is expected to close in the coming weeks.