Associated British Foods plc to acquire Hovis Group Limited

Associated British Foods plc has agreed to acquire Hovis Group Limited in a strategic acquisition within the Food and Drink sector. The transaction was announced on 8 July 2026 and completed on the same day. Both the buyer and the target are based in Great Britain. The deal value was not disclosed, and no specific consideration type was reported. This move represents a significant consolidation within the UK food industry, bringing a well-known bread brand under the umbrella of a larger diversified food producer. The acquisition allows Associated British Foods to expand its portfolio of consumer brands and strengthen its position in the staple food market. Hovis Group Limited, known for its iconic bread products, will now operate as part of the larger corporate structure. The integration of Hovis into Associated British Foods aims to leverage shared resources and distribution networks to enhance operational efficiency. This strategic move is expected to drive growth through combined scale and expertise in the competitive food landscape.

The transaction is now complete. Regulatory approvals were secured prior to completion. The deal marks a definitive end to Hovis Group Limited’s independent status. Shareholders of Hovis have received their consideration as part of the closing process. The management teams of both entities have begun the integration phase. Synergies are expected to be realised over the coming months. This acquisition strengthens Associated British Foods’ presence in the UK grocery sector. The combined entity will benefit from broader market reach and enhanced product offerings. No further regulatory hurdles remain for this specific transaction. The focus now shifts to post-merger integration and value creation.