Hilton Food Group in co-operation agreement with Sonae

Hilton Food Group has signed a co-operation agreement with Portugal’s Modelo Continente Hipermercados S.A. (Sonae) for the supply of retail packaged fresh meat into Sonae stores.

Under the terms of the agreement, Hilton will cooperate with Sonae for an initial period of six to nine months to improve the production facilities located in Portugal. Products supplied from the facility will include a wide range of packaged meat.

It is expected that after the initial period of co-operation, the companies will form a joint venture to implement this partnership.

Commenting on the agreement, Hilton CEO Robert Watson said: “This is an exciting growth opportunity for Hilton Foods to work with Sonae, Portugal’s leading food retailer, utilising our tried and tested business model in the Portuguese market. As we have previously demonstrated, our flexible and versatile business model enables us to meet local requirements with customers in each country and as such, we are able to enter new territories successfully. We continue to look for further opportunities for geographic expansion.”

Eunice Silva, Commercial Director of Sonae MC, added: “We are pleased to be partnering with Hilton Foods and look forward to the benefits and expertise that will enable us to continue delivering the highest quality at the best prices for our customers. Continente will strengthen its leadership in the development of innovation and in the sustainable promotion of the agro food business in Portugal.”