Dutch Chilled Potato Business CêlaVíta bankrupt

Potato producer CêlaVíta has gone bankrupt, according to reports in the Dutch press. The company had been struggling with financial problems for some time. CêlaVíta supplied pre-cut potatoes and pre-seasoned potato products to supermarkets, hotels, and restaurants throughout Europe. The Dutch company, based in Wezep, was founded in 1967. 

Recently, the company announced a reorganization in which CêlaVíta planned to focus more on French fries, according to Dutch media outlet Omroep Gelderland. 

Just over a month ago, employees of the potato producer rejected the final offer for a new collective labor agreement. At that time, the majority of the employees were in favor of taking industrial action, according to trade union FNV. 

Much still unclear 

It is not yet clear what will happen to the approximately 200 employees. According to the regional broadcaster, they were informed of the bankruptcy August 12 in the afternoon and will not be required to work for the time being. A meeting with the bankruptcy trustee will be held soon to discuss next steps. 

CêlaVíta had been owned by Canadian French fry manufacturer McCain since 2012 but was acquired just over a year ago by investment firm Nimbus.