Fortifi Food Processing Solutions, a global leader in food processing automation, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Deighton Manufacturing Ltd, a leading provider of forming, portioning, coating and frying equipment. The acquisition reflects Fortifi's broader strategy to offer complete, full-line solutions that serve the needs of food processors of all sizes.

“Deighton is an important step in expanding Fortifi’s capabilities into modular, flexible and lower-throughput applications, broadening our reach to a wider customer base while complementing our core expertise in large-scale, fully integrated processing,” said Massimo Bizzi, CEO of Fortifi. “Together with Provisur Technologies and Nothum Food Processing Systems, we can deliver high-quality forming, coating and thermal applications across all production volumes.”

This new acquisition includes production capabilities in the protein, fish, dairy and bakery sectors for a broad range of food processors globally. 

“Deighton brings strong geographic coverage across the UK and Europe, along with a highly accessible solutions portfolio that aligns well with the needs of growth markets in Latin America, India and Southeast Asia,” said Mark Dowdle, executive vice president of strategy and business development for Fortifi. “Deighton positions us to accelerate expansion into emerging markets and support a broader range of food processors globally.”

Deighton produces continuous and batch processing equipment for a variety of consumer products, including nuggets, burgers, appetizers, vegetables, cookies and international foods.

As part of Fortifi, Deighton will benefit from broader geographic reach and enhanced commercial and operational support resources. By leveraging Fortifi’s engineering and manufacturing expertise, Deighton can drive growth and expand into new markets, while continuing to invest in its team and long-term success.

Deighton employees will join Fortifi’s broad-based ownership program, which provides all employees with the opportunity to participate in the benefits of equity ownership.

About Fortifi Food Processing Solutions
Headquartered in The Woodlands, Texas and operating worldwide, Fortifi is a leading food processing automation solutions platform. Fortifi serves customers through its global manufacturing and service footprint, and drives improvements in food quality and yield, labor productivity, and worker safety for many of the world’s largest food producers. Fortifi’s growing portfolio includes Bettcher, Frontmatec, MHM Automation, Provisur, Nothum, REICH, Kais Software, LIMA, Wyma, Area52, Cantrell-Gainco, Greenline and BANSS.