The deal has created "options for action," Heino Schmidt said, adding that the firm already has its eyes on "desired candidates" for takeovers.

Oetker, a diversified group with interests in food, beverages, hotels and other sectors, is confident of matching 2017's sales volume in the foreseeable future via organic and acquisition-based growth, Schmidt told reporters.

Oetker's net financial assets stood at 3.6 billion euros at the end of 2017, according to company records.

(Reporting by Matthias Inverardi; Writing by Andreas Cremer)