Lutosa, a leading Belgian producer of frozen French fries and potato flakes, has officially launched a €225 million industrial expansion at its Waregem facility—one of the largest food sector investments in West Flanders in recent years. The project, inaugurated on May 27, 2025, reinforces the company’s commitment to high-capacity, sustainable production while creating around 100 new jobs in operations, logistics, and technical roles.
A Strategic Investment in Efficiency and Sustainability
The expansion includes:
- A new frozen fries production line, increasing output to meet rising global demand.
- An upgraded potato flakes line, enhancing versatility for food manufacturers.
- A modernized potato reception and sorting station, improving raw material efficiency.
- An advanced wastewater treatment plant, aligning with strict environmental standards.
Lutosa emphasizes that the facility will integrate “the best available techniques” in water and energy management, reducing environmental impact while maintaining product quality. According to the European Potato Processing Association (EPPA), the global frozen potato market is projected to grow at 4.2% annually through 2030, driven by fast-food demand and convenience trends.
Economic and Employment Impact
The project is not just about scaling production—it’s a long-term regional development strategy. Lutosa CEO Alain Dufait highlighted that the new jobs will span production, maintenance, logistics, and quality control, supported by continuous training programs. Flanders’ Minister-President Matthias Diependaele praised the investment for strengthening Belgium’s position as the world’s largest exporter of frozen potato products, accounting for €3.5 billion in annual exports (Belgian Agriculture Ministry, 2024).
Sustainability at the Core
Lutosa’s expansion aligns with the EU’s Farm to Fork Strategy, focusing on resource efficiency and reduced carbon footprints. The company plans to cut water usage by 15% and improve energy recovery systems, setting a benchmark for sustainable food processing.
Lutosa’s €225 million Waregem expansion is a transformative step for the potato processing industry, blending automation, sustainability, and job creation. By investing in cutting-edge technology and eco-friendly practices, Lutosa is positioning itself as a leader in the competitive frozen potato market while supporting Flanders’ agricultural economy.
