Waterford's Dawn Meats expands into Germany with acquisiton of Alexander Eyckeler GmbH

Waterford-based meat processors Dawn Meats has announced the acquisition of Alexander Eyckeler GmbH, a German meat importer and distributor.

Alexander Eyckeler GmbH is an established customer of the Alliance Group- the New Zealand-based sheep cooperative that was acquired by Dawn Meats in 2025.

Dawn Meats took hold of a 65% stake in the co-operative at a deal valued at around €133 million.

Alexander Eyckeler GmbH is based close to Düsseldorf, and has been involved in the importing and marketing of overseas chilled meat since the turn of the century.

“This acquisition supports Dawn Meats’ ongoing integration with Alliance and strengthens our ability to serve customers in-market,” said Dawn Meats Chief Executive Niall Browne.

“It brings Dawn Meats closer to key customers in Germany, improves co-ordination across supply and logistics and provides continuity for the Eyckeler team and its customers.”

Mr Browne has been the acting CEO of Alliance since the beginning of the year.

“This development marks a new chapter in the company’s long-standing partnership with Alliance Group and its parent company Dawn Meats,” said Alexander Eyckeler Managing Director Markus Wagner.

“We are confident that the trusted relationships built over decades with all our customers and suppliers will remain at the heart of Alexander Eyckeler GmbH’s approach, with the current team continuing to manage key accounts and oversee daily operations.”