Schwan selling European pizza business

Wednesday, December 3, 2008 - 11:08 AM CST

Schwan selling European pizza
business to Dr. Oetker, Freiberger Group

European frozen-pizza businesses to Dr. Oetker and Freiberger Group, Schwan said Wednesday.

Dr. Oetker is acquiring Schwan’s pizza-production facility in Leyland, England, along with the Chicago Town frozen-food brand.

Schwan is also allowing Dr. Oetker to sell the Freschetta and Tony’s brands in Europe.

Freiberger is acquiring Schwan’s Osterweddingen, Germany, plant and its private-label business and will also produce branded pizzas and snacks for Dr. Oetker for sale across Europe.

Financial details of the sale were not disclosed.

Marshall-based Schwan said it decided to sell this portion of its European business so it can focus more on its business in North America.

The deal is expected to be finalized by year end.

Schwan will continue to own and operate its food production facility in northern France.