LONDON – Eight Fifty Food Group, a multi-protein food supplier controlled by CapVest Partners LLP, announced the acquisition of Carroll’s Cuisine from private equity firm Carlyle Cardinal Ireland (CCI) for an undisclosed amount. The transaction is subject to standard closing conditions and approval from the Irish Competition and Consumer Protection Commission.

Carroll’s is a leading producer of cooked meats and convenience food in the Republic of Ireland. The business employs approximately 300 people in its site in Tullamore, Offaly. Carroll’s will be integrated into Eight Fifty’s pork division and will further expand Eight Fifty’s presence in Ireland following the acquisition of M&M Walshe in June 2020. M&M Walshe is a family-run business that supplies ham and bacon to retail and foodservice customers across 16 countries in Europe and has recently expanded into Asia and Africa.

Eight Fifty said Carroll’s sliced cooked meat offering will complement M&M Walshe’s gammon, bacon and sous-vide meat products.

“Eight Fifty are guardians of strong brands across multiple proteins and so we are delighted to add the Carroll’s business to our growing group,” said Di Walker, chief executive officer of Eight Fifty Food Group. “Like our Young’s brand in seafood, the Carroll’s name is synonymous with quality, value-added protein products. Carroll’s will be a great addition to our business.”

Eight Fifty will have sales of roughly £1.9 billion and employ around 8,300 people across 23 manufacturing sites in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany and France upon completion of the transaction.

“The interest in Carroll’s is testament to the work that CCI and the entire Carroll’s management team have completed over the last five years,” said John Comerford managing director at Caroll’s. “Through continuous investment and innovation, we have delivered the highest quality produce to our customer base. We’re excited to work with Eight Fifty and deliver their ambitious future growth plans.”