E3 Hook2Sisters, mergers and acquisitions in the egg sector, and the RSPCA reaches out

In this episode of the Poultry Network Podcast, hosts Tom Willings and Tom Woolman reflect on a pivotal fortnight for the UK poultry sector.🔹 Major Industry News: Hook2Sisters SaleThe episode opens with analysis of the landmark announcement that Hook2Sisters, the long-standing 50/50 joint venture between PD Hook and 2 Sisters Food Group, will be fully acquired by the Boparan Private Office—the investment vehicle of Ranjit Singh Boparan.This marks consolidation in the broiler supply chain.PD Hook will continue to operate a hatchery business, focusing on the independent market.Tom Willings gives a historical overview of the venture, which began in 2006 to secure chick and broiler supply chains for both companies.🔹 Egg Sector Shake-UpAttention then turns to a flurry of mergers and acquisitions in the egg sector, which, although smaller in scale, signal significant change:Noble Foods acquires Just Egg, enhancing their processed egg capability.Hardeman Group (Netherlands) takes over Bumblehole Foods, bringing a large European player into UK processing.The Griffiths family announces a joint venture with French firm Eureden, expanding processing ambitions beyond fresh shell egg.These moves reflect an evolving focus on value-added egg products and defensive strategies to maintain customer relationships and production viability.The hosts reflect on low per capita egg consumption in the UK compared to Europe, and opportunities to expand “egg occasions” through product innovation.🔹 What’s Ahead: RSPCA & Industry EventsUpcoming discussion points and events include:RSPCA Welfare Standards Updates:1 July: RSPCA Member webinar on new laying hen standards.8 July: RSPCA attending the West Country Layers Association meeting in Cullompton.Poultry Network Live:Taking place on 4 September at Harper Adams University.