According to reports, India’s largest biscuit company Parle Products is reportedly in talks with private equity (PE) firm Bridgepoint to acquire Polish biscuit and biscuit company, dr Gerard. According to the Economic Times, the Polish company is valued at Rs 1,000 to 1,200 crore.

dr Gerard was acquired by Bridgepoint in 2013 from French Groupe Poult for an undisclosed sum. The company appointed Houlihan Lokey to oversee the sales of dr Gerard in 2022.

The sale was delayed due to geopolitical uncertainty caused by the Russian-Ukraine war. The people said there was no certainty that the deal would go smoothly. Initial discussions between dr Gerard and Parle revolved around manufacturing opportunities, but Bridgepoint decided to put the company on hold. If the deal goes ahead, it will be Parle’s first acquisition.

“Biscuit makers are all trying to upgrade their products with premiumisation. Parle is still primarily a mass brand; an acquisition would help get a ready portfolio. dr Gerald has long been a target as it is PE-owned, but Parle has never bought anything in India, let alone cross-border. So, it’s going to be interesting,” an investment banker told ET.

• NLC India To Start Mining In Machhakata Coal Block
• P N Gadgil Jewellers Ltd IPO GMP, Issue Date, Key Dates & Financials
• European Stocks Sink Ahead of U.S. Payrolls’ Report
• Coal Ministry Allocates Orders for 3 Commercial Mines, Rs 4,500 crore Investment Potential
• SEBI To Tighten F&O Rules Despite Investor Pushback: Report

Launched in 1993, dr Gerard has over 200 biscuits and savoury snacks. On the other hand, Parle has been one of India’s most trusted FMCG brands. According to a recent report by Kantar India, Parle topped the list for the 10th consecutive year.