Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller to Acquire Berief Food GmbH

Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller is advancing its growth strategy with the planned acquisition of Berief Food GmbH, a family-run company specializing in plant-based foods and beverages. The transaction, announced in May 07, 2026, is subject to approval by competition authorities under merger control law.

Berief Food GmbH, based in Beckum, Germany, has over 40 years of experience in the plant-based nutrition sector and employs approximately 350 people. The company produces a diverse portfolio including plant-based drinks made from soya, almonds, and oats, as well as tofu products and plant-based yoghurt alternatives.

While the financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed, the acquisition is expected to provide Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller with access to Berief’s established product range, production expertise, and additional manufacturing capacity. This move is designed to support Müller’s expansion in the private label segment and broader plant-based food market.

Stefan Müller, Chairman of Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller, stated, “With Berief, we are gaining an experienced team and strong brand and production expertise in the plant-based food sector. This is an important strategic step with which we intend to complement our activities in this future-oriented market.”

The acquisition aligns with growing consumer demand for plant-based nutrition, a segment experiencing dynamic growth globally. By integrating Berief’s products and capabilities, Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller aims to leverage cross-selling opportunities through its existing distribution channels and expand its private label offerings.

Operational synergies are expected through economies of scale in raw material procurement, consolidation of production and supply chain operations, and shared research and development efforts focused on plant-based innovation. The integration will also enable Müller to streamline product development pipelines and enhance manufacturing efficiency by incorporating Berief’s production expertise.

Berief’s established presence in plant-based drinks and yoghurt alternatives complements Müller’s portfolio, positioning the group to better compete with other major players in the plant-based food and beverage market. The deal also strengthens Müller’s regional presence in Germany and supports its strategy to diversify into fast-growing consumer packaged goods segments.

Challenges remain in aligning the corporate cultures of a family-run business and a larger corporate group, integrating production processes, and managing regulatory approvals. Retaining key talent from Berief will be critical to maintaining operational continuity and innovation momentum.

Completion of the acquisition depends on regulatory clearance, with no timeline disclosed. Upon approval, Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller plans to integrate Berief’s operations to capitalize on growth opportunities in plant-based nutrition and expand its private label business.

This acquisition marks a significant step in Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller’s strategy to strengthen its position in the evolving food and beverage landscape, particularly within the sustainable and plant-based product categories.