What's Happening?
Belgium-based ready-meals company What’s Cooking? has received a takeover approach from Malaga Investment SCSp. The bid is for all shares not already held by the bidder or its affiliates. This announcement coincides with the company's annual results,
which reported a 16.2% increase in turnover to €468.9 million. The company, formerly known as Ter Beke, has been expanding its ready-meals segment, including the acquisition of French company Sveltic in 2025. What’s Cooking? is also investing in capacity expansion at its Opole, Poland plant, expected to be operational by 2027.
Why It's Important?
The takeover interest in What’s Cooking? underscores the attractiveness of the ready-meals market, which has seen growth due to changing consumer preferences for convenience foods. The potential acquisition by Malaga Investment could lead to strategic shifts in the company's operations and market approach. The expansion plans in Poland indicate a commitment to increasing production capacity, which could enhance the company's competitive position in the European market. This development may also impact the company's financial performance and shareholder value.
What's Next?
What’s Cooking? has not yet responded to the takeover proposal, leaving the future ownership of the company uncertain. The company's ongoing investment in production capacity suggests a focus on long-term growth, which could be influenced by the outcome of the takeover bid. Stakeholders will be watching for any official response from What’s Cooking? and potential negotiations with Malaga Investment. The expansion in Poland is expected to proceed, with new production lines anticipated to be operational by 2027.
