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Nortera, B&G Foods Drop Merger Attempt After Competition Watchdog Steps In
The companies say the acquisition would likely reduce competition and raise wholesale prices for canned and frozen vegetables, the Competition Bureau said.
On Tuesday, Quebec-based Nortera abandoned its proposed acquisition of Green Giant and Le Sieur brands from New Jersey-based B&G Foods after the Competition Bureau sought to block the move.
An August investigation by the Competition Bureau found the acquisition would likely harm competition through higher prices and fewer consumer choices in wholesale vegetable supply, including freezer staples such as corn and peas.
Interim competition commissioner Jeanne Pratt noted Nortera is already Canada's dominant processor of many canned and frozen vegetables, selling under the Del Monte and Arctic Gardens brands.
B&G Foods will continue to own and operate Green Giant Canada, with Nortera remaining as the primary co-manufacturer for the brands, the companies confirmed.
Originally announced in October 2025, the deal sought to bring the brands fully under Nortera's control after the company had been Canada's exclusive producer for 30 years.
The proposed transaction provided for the acquisition by Nortera of the Geant Vert and Le Sieur brands of B&G Foods Canada.GATINEAU, QC, Oct. 6, 2026 /CNW/