Pepsico to acquire UK chips company Pipers Crisps

Global food and drinks giant PepsiCo has announced its intention to take over the UK based snack food company Pipers Crisps.

The firm, also owning leading British brand Walkers, has agreed an undisclosed deal to acquire the chip manufacturer, which it said it has coveted for some time.

PepsiCo plans to accelerate the growth of Pipers, if the move is approved by the Competition and Markets Authority, adding it will continue to develop and export the multi-award winning brand.

It is understood Pipers would remain at Elsham Wold, where a contemporary head office sits alongside the production facilities by the A15, with 80 people employed there. However, the company was unable to confirm this ahead of a CMA decision.

Ian Ellington, general manager of PepsiCo UK, said the kettle-cooked, gourmet crisp brand will complement PepsiCo's existing savoury snacks portfolio.

Ian Ellington, general manager of PepsiCo UK:
 

“Pipers share our uncompromising commitment to delivering on taste and quality and we’ve long-admired their entrepreneurial spirit.”

“The Pipers' brand has a strong proposition within the market, with stand-out taste, flavours and appeal.”

Pipers Crisps was established in North Lincolnshire in 2004 by three entrepreneurs with farming interests - Simon Herring, James Sweeting and Alex Albone - and was seen as a new market for Lincolnshire potatoes.

The company's award-winning range of premium crisps is sold in the "out of home environment", which includes pubs, restaurants, cafes, hotels and farm shops, both in the UK and abroad. It has a turnover of £30 million.

James McKinney, managing director of Pipers Crisps:
 

“We've developed innovative products to suit evolving tastes while establishing a strong foothold in the market.”

“PepsiCo's commitment to accelerating the growth of the Pipers brand means more people will be able to enjoy the unique, award-winning flavour of Pipers crisps.”

It is envisaged the deal could be completed early next year if approved by the regulators.