Albert Keijzer’s management has announced that Belgian food logistics specialist Sitra Group has completed the acquisition of the Dutch company for an undisclosed sum.

Founded in 1962, Sitra Group is a family-owned business with an annual turnover of 250 million euros. The company employs over 2,000 people across 12 countries, including the Netherlands, and operates a fleet of more than 1,000 trucks and 2,500 trailers and containers, including liquid and powder food tankers. Albert Keijzer, based in the Netherlands, specialises in the food logistics sector, with a turnover of 25 million euros. The company employs 150 people and manages 120 trucks and 270 trailers, along with its own cleaning station and workshop. It has built a strong operational and financial track record.

Both Sitra Group and Albert Keijzer are family-owned businesses, with Keijzer’s current shareholders representing the third generation. This similarity played a key role in selecting Sitra as the preferred partner for the company’s future.

Rob de Visser, CEO of Albert Keijzer, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition, highlighting the longstanding relationship between the two companies. He noted that the Saelens family, owners of Sitra Group, had visited Albert Keijzer decades ago, establishing a connection that laid the foundation for the recent negotiations. He emphasised that continuity for the company and its employees was a priority, and Sitra’s scale and ambitious growth plans would strengthen Albert Keijzer in an increasingly competitive market. He also underscored the potential for both organisations to learn from one another and improve logistics performance to benefit their customers.

Sitra Group is owned by the Saelens family and Creafund, an evergreen investment company that joined the business in 2021. David Saelens, executive chairman of the board at Sitra Group, described the acquisition as a perfect strategic fit. He highlighted Keijzer’s reputation in the food logistics industry and praised the dedication of its management and employees. He confirmed that the current leadership team, including Rob de Visser (general manager), Jos Baltes (technical manager), and Angela Ross, would remain in their positions to ensure business continuity.

The acquisition aligns with Sitra Group’s growth strategy, with the company aiming to reach a turnover of 300 million euros by the end of the year. Saelens expressed gratitude to all those involved in the transaction and hinted at further expansion plans in the near future.

Kenneth Depuydt, partner at Creafund, echoed this sentiment, stating that the acquisition supports the Group’s strategic growth ambitions. He welcomed Albert Keijzer’s employees and praised the company’s professionalism and expertise, noting that their contribution would strengthen the Group as a whole.

Birger De Smet, CEO Europe and CCO for Sitra, emphasised the alignment of core values between the two companies, citing drive, passion, dedication, and experience. He expressed confidence that Keijzer’s strong reputation and expertise would have a positive impact on the Group and looked forward to integrating the new team members.

The transaction was advised by Sophista on behalf of Albert Keijzer, while Sitra was advised by De Breij and BDO.