MAREL has announced the acquisition of PMJ, a global provider of duck processing equipment.

The poultry processing manufacturer said it would help expand further into the duck market, in addition to its existing chicken and turkey capabilities.

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PML was founded in 1998 and is located in Opmeer, in the Netherlands. It has 40 employees and annual sales of around €5m.

Marel said PMJ’s ‘complementary’ portfolio of primary processing equipment complemented its existing ranges, making the firm the only full-line duck processing provider.

Globally, the duck meat market is growing with an estimated €6bn value. Annual production is 4.5m tonnes, of which 70% is in China.

Logical step

Roger Claessens, EVP Poultry at Marel, said the acquisition was a ‘logical step’.

“The high quality of PMJ’s solutions reflects the company’s 23 years of dedication to duck processing.

“With our combined efforts and continued focus on innovation, we will be in a stronger position to transform the duck industry in partnership with our customers.”

Bas van der Veldt, chief executive of PMJ, added, “We are proud of PMJ and what we have achieved together with all our loyal employees and customers worldwide.