RIVERSIDE, Mo. – Marlen International Inc., a supplier of food processing equipment and systems for customers around the world and a subsidiary of Duravant LLC, Chicago, announced its acquisition of Veurne, Belgium-based Afoheat. Specializing in gas-fueled, infrared and direct-flame technology, Afoheat manufactures heating and cooking equipment for the food-processing industry.

The acquisition is an extension of Marlen’s established reputation for supplying the food industry with quality thermal processing equipment and expertise. Afoheat will maintain its manufacturing and sales facilities in Belgium as an extension of Marlen International’s presence in the European market.

According to Bob Campbell, president of Marlen, “The addition of Afoheat to Marlen’s product portfolio brings a welcome set of new technologies and competencies which will further enhance our ability to serve our diverse customer base while helping them produce and market high-quality food products across the globe.”

Wim Clays, managing director of Afoheat added: “Our team at Afoheat is very excited to be part of the Marlen family, which, through their considerable resources, will help accelerate our growth and original vision of becoming a worldwide leader in our niche in the marketplace.”