Clarebout Potatoes Announces Intention to Cease Production Activities at its Moeskroen 1 Facility

MOESKROEN, Belgium, 8 September 2026 – Clarebout Potatoes today informed employees and their representatives of a proposal concerning the possible cessation of production activities at its Moeskroen 1 facility, a production site owned by Mydibel SA, a subsidiary of Clarebout NV, and operated as part of the Clarebout Potatoes manufacturing network. The proposal forms part of a broader effort to align production capacity with market demand and support the long-term competitiveness of the company's operations. In accordance with Belgian legislation, the company has initiated an information and consultation procedure. Clarebout Potatoes is committed to supporting its employees throughout the process.

The proposal comes amid ongoing challenges in the frozen potato market, including excess production capacity, increased competition and rising costs. Clarebout Potatoes' production capacity currently exceeds expected demand by approximately 14-20%, while the company continues to incur fixed costs designed for higher production volumes.

Moeskroen 1 is the smallest production site in the Clarebout group and operates with older equipment. As a result, it operates at a higher cost per tonne and lower efficiency than the group's other manufacturing facilities.

The proposal for Moeskroen 1 is intended to better align production capacity with demand and support the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of the company’s operations. Clarebout Potatoes intends to continue investing in other facilities across its network to improve efficiency, enhance product quality and support future growth opportunities.

No final decision has been made. The information and consultation process will provide employee representatives with the opportunity to review the proposal, provide feedback, ask questions and explore potential alternatives before any decision is taken.

Should the proposal ultimately proceed following completion of that process, production activities at the Moeskroen 1 facility could be gradually phased out. Up to 392 employees could be affected.

Clarebout Potatoes recognises that this proposal will create uncertainty for employees and their families. The company is committed to engaging openly, respectfully and with care throughout the process and to supporting employees during this period.

Further information will be provided as the process progresses.

About Clarebout Potatoes

Clarebout Potatoes is one of Europe’s leading producers of frozen potato products, supplying customers across Europe and around the world. The company and its affiliates employ 3,000 people in Belgium and France. Clarebout Potatoes became a subsidiary of the Simplot Company in 2025. The Simplot Company is a privately held food and agriculture company headquartered in Boise, Idaho, USA.

Media Contact

Marie Huyghe
Whyte Corporate Affairs
clarebout@whyte.be
+32 474 97 39 36