HelloFresh says they are in "exclusive negotiations" to buy BeCool
Other reports say, however, that the refrigerated courier network was still exploring other potential buyers.
Meal kit company HelloFresh Australia released a statement, saying that their business is allowed to exclusively explore the opportunity to acquire the assets and associated trade of BeCool due to both parties agreeing to a "non-binding term-sheet."
The potential acquisition, HelloFresh says, is part of their strategy to secure critical parts of their supply chain through vertical integration.
“For growing food e-commerce businesses like ours, access to a strong network of refrigerated couriers is absolutely crucial in ensuring stable operations. As well as bringing certainty to this critical part of our supply chain, this acquisition is attractive as it would lead to a greater level of control and reduction in operating costs,” HelloFresh Australia CEO Tom Rutledge said.
BeCool’s owner David Parkinson was also quoted as saying: “The immediate focus will be to further streamline the operations with HelloFresh and remain the best refrigerated courier solution in Australia, whilst continuing to grow our national footprint.”
Once the transaction is complete, both parties are expected to "evaluate the long-term strategy of the new entity", including how to serve new and existing clients that are potentially integrated into the revamped operations such as Marley Spoon - one of HelloFresh's competitors whose logistics are fully handled by BeCool.
However, other reports quoting a BeCool representative say that the refrigerated courier network was still exploring other potential buyers.
