Bell Food Group expands in Germany with key ham producer acquisition

A bold move in Europe’s meat industry: Bell Food Group snaps up a legendary German ham brand. How will this reshape the market—and its own future?

, and Administrator

2025 November 6 . 9:13 PM

1 min read

In this picture, we see glass from which we can see the trays containing the meat. We even see the... — In this picture, we see glass from which we can see the trays containing the meat. We even see the price tags. On the left side, we see the buildings and trees. There are trees and buildings in the background. At the top, we see the ceiling of the room. This might be a meat shop.

Bell Food Group expands in Germany with key ham producer acquisition

Swiss food giant Bell Food Group is reshaping its operations and expanding in Europe. The company is reviewing its Austrian operations and focusing on the DACH market (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland). It has also announced the acquisition of German ham producer Hermann Wein GmbH & Co KG, as part of the ongoing consolidation in Germany's meat and sausage sector.

Bell Group is restructuring its Hügli division, relocating production from the UK to Germany and the Czech Republic. This move comes amidst the closure of Perleberg abattoir, one of the last major pig slaughterhouses in eastern Germany. The acquisition of Wein is expected to close in early 2026, pending antitrust approval.

Hermann Wein, founded in 1966 by Hermann Wein, produces 3 million hams annually under the EU's 'Protected Geographical Indication' label. The company's acquisition is part of Bell Group's strategy to strengthen its position in the European meat market, joining other major players like Wolf Essgenuss GmbH, recently acquired by the Chinese WH Group via its British subsidiary Morliny Foods. Other notable companies in the sector include Börner-Eisenacher GmbH, known for specialty products, and the largest organic salami producer in Germany.

Bell Food Group's acquisition of Hermann Wein and restructuring of its Hügli division reflect the company's commitment to growing its presence in the European meat market. These strategic moves follow the trend of consolidation in the sector, with major players like WH Group also expanding their footprint. The integration of Hermann Wein is expected to bolster Bell Group's product portfolio and strengthen its competitive position.