The German group Theo Müller is accelerating its presence in the plant-based sector with the planned acquisition of Berief Food GmbH, a historic family-run company in Beckum specializing in plant-based foods and beverages. The transaction, subject to antitrust approval, aims to strengthen the group's presence in one of the most dynamic segments of the European food industry.
Berief will become a full member of Theo Müller while maintaining significant operational autonomy. The group's goal is to consolidate its expertise, production capacity, and commercial presence in the plant-based products market, while supporting the German company's international expansion.
Founded in 1985, Berief has been operating in plant-based nutrition for over forty years and has approximately 350 employees. The company produces a broad portfolio of products, including plant-based drinks made from soy, oats, and almonds, as well as tofu and plant-based yogurt alternatives.
In 2025, Berief Food recorded a turnover of approximately 113 million euros and an EBITDA of close to 12 million euros, confirming its position as one of the most significant independent operators in the sector in Germany.
The transaction concludes a process initiated by Berief to identify new resources to support future growth. The company had evaluated various financial and industrial options to support the growing demand for plant-based products and accelerate expansion into new European markets, particularly in the Benelux countries and Eastern Europe.
According to the announcement, the Theo Müller Group will benefit from new production capabilities and additional industrial capacity, particularly in the plant-based beverages and plant-based yogurt alternatives segments. This strategic advantage will also further strengthen the private label business, a rapidly growing segment in the European plant-based products market.
Stefan Müller, Chairman of the Theo Müller Group, called the acquisition "an important strategic step" to consolidate the group's presence in a market considered to have high potential. "With Berief, we are gaining an experienced team and strong manufacturing and brand expertise in the plant-based foods sector," he stated.
Marcus Berief, the company's current owner, also highlighted the industrial significance of the operation, emphasizing how the Müller Group represents "the best conditions for successful development", guaranteeing long-term growth and stability for the Beckum production site.
