Zalmhuys Group Acquires Majority Stake in BML Food Group

Zalmhuys Group has acquired a majority stake in BML Food Group, a leading importer and distributor of shrimp and frozen seafood products based in The Hague. The transaction, announced on August 18, 2026, positions Zalmhuys to strengthen its presence in the European seafood market while enabling BML to expand its international activities and product range.

BML Food Group, founded in 2007, operates from its headquarters in The Hague with refrigerated warehouses in Lekkerkerk and Breda. The company serves over 360 customers across more than 30 countries, offering private-label products and items under its own brand, Ben’s Easy Kitchen. The acquisition is expected to contribute to a combined annual revenue of approximately €600 million for Zalmhuys Group.

The terms of the deal were not disclosed. However, it is confirmed that Ben Slothouber and Graeme Kerr, founders of BML, will remain involved as minority shareholders and continue in their management roles. The transaction was facilitated by Marktlink, which advised BML’s shareholders throughout the process.

Zalmhuys Group, headquartered in Urk, is an international total supplier of fresh, frozen, and smoked fish and seafood. The group comprises specialized companies including Het Urker Zalmhuys, Affish, Ocean Fish, Anova Seafood, and Baarssen Fish Processing. Together, they offer a broad seafood portfolio to customers worldwide. The acquisition of BML complements Zalmhuys’ existing operations by adding deep expertise in shrimp and value-added seafood products, as well as expanding its European customer base and supplier network.

Harm ten Napel, Managing Director of Zalmhuys Group, stated, “Our ambition is to offer customers as many seafood products as possible from one group. BML’s expertise in shrimp fits perfectly with this strategy. We value BML’s independent entrepreneurial spirit and will maintain its market position under the leadership of Ben and Graeme, while exploring opportunities to share knowledge and combine purchasing power behind the scenes.”

Ben Slothouber of BML Food Group emphasized the importance of cultural fit in the deal: “It was crucial that the new owner understood not only the commercial potential but also the company’s values and how it was built. Our discussions with Zalmhuys quickly established mutual trust and respect, giving me confidence that BML is in good hands.”

The seafood industry is experiencing consolidation as companies seek to broaden product offerings and expand geographic reach. This acquisition allows Zalmhuys to accelerate international growth, enhance its product portfolio with private-label and branded seafood, and realize operational efficiencies through integrated logistics and procurement.

Marktlink’s Wouter Veldhoven noted, “Strategic buyers are actively seeking companies with strong niche positions and market knowledge. Zalmhuys stood out not only for its strategic fit but also for its alignment with BML’s culture and leadership.”

Looking ahead, the integration will focus on maintaining BML’s company culture and customer relationships while aligning operational processes. The gradual leadership transition as founder Slothouber reduces involvement will be managed carefully to ensure continuity. Regulatory approvals are expected to proceed smoothly given the complementary nature of the businesses.

This acquisition marks a significant step for Zalmhuys Group in consolidating its role as a leading European seafood supplier, with enhanced capabilities and a broader product offering to meet evolving market demands.