Greencore Group plc, an Ireland-based international convenience food business, announced the proposed acquisition of Peacock Foods for $747.5 million.

Convenience is a key driver for U.S. consumers who are increasingly turning to prepared foods purchased at the supermarket deli for in-home suppers, reports The NPD Group.

Bob Evan Farms, Columbus, Ohio, said it expects by May 2009 to nearly double the size of a frozen sandwich processing plant in Sulphur Springs, Texas.