DARMSTADT, GERMANY — Schenck Process Group (SPG) announced Oct. 16 plans to acquire Baker Perkins, a global food processing equipment and services provider to the pet food, bakery, confectionery, cookie and cracker and other related industries.

The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of this year.

Baker Perkins is headquartered in Peterborough, United Kingdom, and is expected to expand Schenck Process’s capabilities and reach in global food markets.

“I am delighted to see Baker Perkins join us,” said Keith Cochrane, chief executive officer of Schenck Process. “This is a long-established business with a reputation for excellent products and customer service, with a similar business model to our own. It will complement and extend our existing product offering to the food end-market, which is a key strategic focus, providing good opportunities for future growth, operating efficiency and further value creation for all stakeholders.”

Through the acquisition of Baker Perkins, Schenck Process hopes to strengthen its food processing and equipment solutions presence in Europe, its product offerings in North and South America, and expand growth opportunities in the Asia Pacific region through the acquisition.

“We have been looking for a long-term partner prepared to invest in the company and continue its development for many years to come,” commented Dan Bassett, managing director of Baker Perkins’ United Kingdom division. “We can relate to the SPG culture that encourages local autonomy and entrepreneurship, which fits well with our independent mind-set. Already we can see significant opportunities for growth, and I am excited at the prospect of working together.”

Baker Perkins management will continue to run the business under management of Schenck Process’s regional business structures. Baker Perkins’ facilities in Peterborough and Grand Rapids, Mich. will continue to run under Schenck Process’s management.

“Schenck Process already has a significant footprint in the US market, and we can see major opportunities in the combination of our expertise and product range,” said Dan Smith, managing director of Baker Perkins’ United States division.

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