Princes this week completed the acquisition of Beta Foods and its wholly owned subsidiary, C Shippam (The Grocer, February 3, p12). Three years ago Chichester based Beta Foods, the fishpaste, canned chicken and pâté business, thwarted Liverpool based Princes' bid for the Shippam business Princes chief executive John Harrison said: "The acquisition consolidates our leadership of the sandwich and snack solutions category and provides a springboard for future development." Brands of the acquired companies include Shippams and Sutherland. The acquisition for an undisclosed sum is part of Princes' growth plans in its key business areas. {{NEWS }}