Allens Reveals Strategic Repositioning, Growth Plans

Allens, Inc. plans to reposition its brand strategically for growth by selling four of its six frozen-vegetable operations to The Bonduelle Group, which is based In France. The transaction will enable Siloam Springs, Ark.-based Allens to focus on its core competencies: canned and Southern-style frozen vegetables.

The transaction, which is anticipated to close late this month, is structured as an asset purchase and involves the company’s Bergen, N.Y.; Oakfield, N.Y.; Brockport, N.Y; and Fairwater, Wis., plants, which collectively employ about 400 people. The purchase includes the Chill Ripe and the frozen Garden Classics brands, in addition to a license to use certain brand names owned by Allens in the frozen business for a limited transitional period.

Allens will continue to own and operate its two Montezuma, Ga., facilities following the transaction. The remaining plants specialize in frozen breaded vegetable products and Southern-style frozen vegetables.

“With this renewed concentration [on our core competencies], we anticipate greater growth, more innovation and even better customer service and product quality,” noted Allens president and CEO Rick Allen.

Recently, in a bid to increase its focus on canned and Southern-style products, Allens acquired three additional operations in Arkansas, Wisconsin and North Carolina. The investment has positioned the company to better meet current growing demands as well as future growth needs, according to Allens. Additionally, the supplier has added technology, equipment and resources that will allow it to bring quality product to market faster while continuing to transition to a robust, year-round operation within its canned and Southern-style operations.