Clarebout Potatoes Proposes Moeskroen 1 Closure as Capacity Exceeds Frozen Potato Demand

Clarebout Potatoes is proposing to close its Moeskroen 1 production facility in Belgium as the company responds to ongoing pressure in the frozen potato sector. The JR Simplot-owned group has informed employees and their representatives about the possible cessation of production at the site. An information and consultation procedure has been launched in accordance with Belgian legislation.

No final decision has been taken. The consultation process will allow employee representatives to provide feedback, ask questions and explore alternatives to a full closure. If the proposal proceeds, production at Moeskroen 1 could be phased out gradually, affecting up to 392 employees.

Clarebout Potatoes said it is committed to supporting employees throughout the process and acknowledged the uncertainty the proposal creates for employees and their families. 
 

Older equipment affects competitiveness

Moeskroen 1, owned by Clarebout subsidiary Mydibel, is the smallest manufacturing facility within the group's production network. According to the company, the site relies on older equipment, resulting in higher unit costs per tonne and lower operational efficiency compared with its more modern plants.

The facility also faced strike action in October 2025 amid a dispute over bonuses linked to US-based JR Simplot's takeover of the business. 
 

Production capacity exceeds expected demand

Clarebout Potatoes cited ongoing challenges in the frozen potato sector as a key reason for considering the shutdown. The company said its production capacity currently exceeds expected demand by 14% to 20%. It also continues to carry fixed overhead costs designed for higher production volumes.

The proposed closure is therefore intended to bring production capacity more closely in line with market demand while improving the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of the company's operations. 

Clarebout Potatoes:

"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."

Investment to continue at other facilities

Despite the potential closure, Clarebout Potatoes plans to continue investing elsewhere in its production network. The investments will focus on improving efficiency, product quality and opportunities for future growth. 

Clarebout Potatoes:

"Clarebout Potatoes intends to continue investing in other facilities across its network to improve efficiency, enhance product quality and support future growth opportunities."

Clarebout Potatoes and its affiliated companies currently employ approximately 3,000 people across Belgium and France.