Mr Chips, the former NZX-listed processor of fresh and chilled potato products, has returned to New Zealand hands following its sale by Simplot Australia to Pukekohe-based Balle Bros Group.
Balle Bros managing director, Dacey Balle said the purchase from Simplot, which had owned the business since 2008, was a positive step for the New Zealand potato industry.
"This purchase is in line with our strong belief in the New Zealand potato industry and our commitment to growing the value created by the industry," Balle said in a statement.
Balle said his company knew the Mr Chips business well, both through being a supplier since 1981, and also as a shareholder from 1993 through to 2010.
Mr Chips was first established in Tauranga in the early 1980's, floated on the New Zealand share market in 1993 before being taken private by Simplot Australia in 2008.
