Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. Completes Acquisition of Egg Production Assets of Mahard Egg Farm

Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. today announced that it has closed the previously announced acquisition of certain assets of Mahard Egg Farm, relating to its commercial shell egg production, processing, distribution and sale of shell eggs business. The acquired assets include commercial shell egg production and processing facilities with current capacity for approximately 3.9 million laying hens and permitted capacity for up to 8.0 million laying hens, a feed mill, pullets and related production facilities located in Chillicothe, Texas, and Nebo, Oklahoma, and a distribution warehouse located in Gordonville, Texas.

Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. is primarily engaged in the production, grading, packing and sale of fresh shell eggs, including...

Jefferies Agrees to Sell Remaining 31% Interest in National Beef to Marfrig

Jefferies Financial Group Inc. announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its remaining 31% interest in National Beef to Marfrig Global Foods. This follows our original sale to Marfrig of a 48% interest in National Beef in June 2018. Under the terms of this agreement, Jefferies will realize a total of $970 million in cash, including $860 million of proceeds from Marfrig and $110 million from final distributions from National Beef. Closing is expected on or about November 30, 2019, subject to limited and customary closing conditions.

The transaction will result in a pre-tax gain of approximately $210 million being recognized by Jefferies. Our last published valuation of our remaining interest in National Beef was $903 million as of May 31, 2019. Since that date, we have received $66 million in distributions and now...

Sysco Acquires Hawaii-Based Armstrong Produce and Kula Produce

Sysco Corporation today announced it has acquired Armstrong Produce and Kula Produce, Hawaii-based broadline fresh produce wholesalers and distributors with approximately $155 million in combined annual revenue. The acquisitions will operate as part of FreshPoint, Sysco’s specialty produce company.

Armstrong Produce was founded in 1979 and has grown from a small family-run wholesale business into Hawaii’s leading produce wholesaler and distributor. With operations in Honolulu, Kona and Kahului, the company supplies a wide range of customers, from local chefs to retailers, with fresh produce daily. Armstrong Produce and Kula Produce are sister companies.

“Armstrong Produce and Kula Produce have been providing quality service and produce to...

Givaudan to Acquire Ungerer

As part of its 2020 strategy to expand the capabilities of its global flavour and fragrance business, Givaudan today announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire Ungerer & Company, the US based Flavour, Fragrance and Specialty Ingredients company.

Headquartered in New Jersey, USA, Ungerer is a leading independent company in the flavour and fragrance specialty ingredients business, most notably in essential oils, which provides a rich palette of predominantly natural ingredients for flavour and fragrance creation, as well as for end customers of such specialties. Ungerer also has an impressive local and regional customer presence for both...

Symrise Successfully Closes Acquisition of ADF/IDF

Symrise AG today announced that it has successfully completed the acquisition of ADF/IDF, a leading U.S. meat and egg-based protein specialist and pioneer in all-natural nutrition ingredients. The acquisition has been cleared by the Antitrust Division of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). Symrise will now begin the process of integrating ADF/IDF. With its comprehensive portfolio of solutions for the food and pet food industries, ADF/IDF will complement the Nutrition portfolio with a highly diversified range of natural based solutions.

"We very much look forward to teaming up with ADF/IDF given our shared focus on innovation and meeting customer needs. Together, we will work to continue expanding our diverse solutions portfolio using the highest quality natural ingredients. Our combined reach will allow us to expand...

Cal-Maine Foods Announces Definitive Agreement to Acquire Egg Production Assets of Mahard Egg Farm

Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. today announced that it has reached a definitive agreement to acquire substantially all of the assets of Mahard Egg Farm, relating to its commercial shell egg production, processing, distribution and sale of shell eggs business. The assets to be acquired, subject to the completion of this transaction, include commercial shell egg production and processing facilities with current capacity for approximately 3.9 million laying hens and permitted capacity for up to 8.0 million laying hens, a feed mill, pullets and related production facilities located in Chillicothe, Texas, and Nebo, Oklahoma, and a distribution warehouse located in Gordonville, Texas. The Company expects to close the transaction in the next few weeks.

Commenting on the announcement, Dolph Baker, chairman and chief executive officer of Cal-Maine Foods, Inc., said, “We are very pleased to announce the acquisition of these assets from Mahard Egg Farm. Cal-Maine Foods already has...

Cracker Barrel Acquires Maple Street Biscuit Company

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. announced it has acquired Maple Street Biscuit Company in an all-cash transaction for $36 million. Maple Street Biscuit Company was founded by Scott Moore and Gus Evans in Jacksonville, FL in 2012. It currently has 28 company-owned and five franchised fast casual locations across seven states. Maple Street Biscuit Company has targeted AUVs of $1.0+ million and targeted store-level EBITDA of 17%+ of net sales. The Company plans to convert its Holler & Dash Biscuit House units into Maple Street Biscuit Company locations in the coming months. Scott Moore will remain CEO of Maple Street Biscuit Company and will report directly to Sandra B. Cochran, President and CEO of Cracker Barrel.

“The breakfast and lunch-focused fast casual category is an attractive segment, and our experience with Holler & Dash has reinforced this belief. We have long admired Maple Street Biscuit Company with...

The Cheesecake Factory Completes Acquisitions of North Italia and Fox Restaurant Concepts

The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated announced that it has closed the acquisitions of North Italia and Fox Restaurant Concepts (“FRC”), including Flower Child.

The transactions were completed for $308 million in consideration at closing, including $12 million earmarked for customary post-closing adjustments. An additional $45 million will be due ratably over the next four years, and the FRC transaction also includes an earn-out provision based on the financial performance of the FRC brands outside of North Italia and Flower Child. The Company previously invested...

Inspire Brands to Acquire Jimmy John’s

Inspire Brands (“Inspire”) today announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Jimmy John’s Sandwiches (“Jimmy John’s”). The agreement was unanimously approved by the Jimmy John’s Board of Directors, including Founder and Chairman Jimmy John Liautaud. The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Inspire is a multi-brand restaurant company whose portfolio includes more than 8,300 Arby’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, SONIC Drive-In and Rusty Taco locations worldwide.Following the completion of the transaction, Inspire will be the fourth-largest restaurant company in the United States with more than $14 billion in annual system sales and more than 11,200 restaurants across 16 countries.

“Jimmy John’s has found the ideal home at Inspire,” Liautaud said. “Inspire’s long-term approach, culture of innovation and commitment to...

McDonald’s to Acquire Apprente, an Early Stage Leader in Voice Technology

McDonald’s Corporation (MCD) announced today an agreement to acquire Apprente, an early stage leader in voice-based, conversational technology. The agreement marks another bold step in advancing employee and customer facing innovations while further strengthening McDonald’s technology capabilities. The announcement comes after extensive exploration with several parties, including evaluating Apprente’s solutions in McDonald’s test restaurants.

Apprente was founded in 2017 in Mountain View, California, to create voice-based platforms for complex, multilingual, multi-accent and multi-item conversational ordering. In McDonald’s restaurants, this technology is expected to allow for faster, simpler and more accurate order taking at the Drive Thru with future potential to incorporate into mobile ordering and kiosks.

“Building our technology infrastructure and digital capabilities are fundamental to our Velocity Growth Plan and enable us to meet rising expectations from our customers, while...

Tyson Foods Partners with Grupo Vibra to Continue its Global Growth Strategy

Buys a 40% stake in the foods division of the Brazilian poultry company

As part of its global growth strategy, Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE: TSN) has reached an agreement to invest in the foods division of Grupo Vibra (“Vibra Foods”), a Brazilian producer and exporter of poultry products. Once completed, the deal will give Tyson Foods more flexibility in serving customers in key global markets. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed, and the transaction is still subject to approval by Brazilian regulators.

“This investment will enable us to access poultry supplies in Brazil to meet the growing needs of Brazilian customers and of priority demand markets in Asia, Europe and the Middle East,” said Donnie King, group president, international & chief administration officer for Tyson Foods. “It’s part of our strategy to develop a more flexible supply chain and mitigate the volatility of our previous model, which relied primarily on U.S. exports.”

Since last year, Tyson Foods has...

HFM FoodService Becomes Sysco Hawaiʻi

Sysco Corporation (NYSE: SYY), the leading global foodservice distribution company, announced that HFM FoodService will officially change its name to Sysco Hawaiʻi today, while celebrating the grand opening of its 3,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art Test Kitchen at the company’s Oahu facility. Additionally, Sysco Hawaiʻi presented the Hawaiʻi Foodbank with a $25,000 donation to reaffirm its commitment to ending hunger, as part of Sysco Hawaiʻi’s Nourishing Neighbors program.

HFM has been the leading wholesale foodservice distributor in the Pacific region for more than 50 years, and in October 2017, HFM was acquired by Sysco Corporation, the leading global distributor of food and related products.

“With the new Sysco Hawaiʻi, we now offer the “best of local from a global company,” said Jason Wong, president, Sysco Hawaiʻi. “We will leverage the strengths of the entire Sysco Hawaiʻi team with...

Pilgrim’s to Acquire Tulip Limited, Creating Integrated Prepared Foods Leader in Europe

Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation today announced that it has signed a contract to acquire Tulip Limited, a leading, integrated prepared foods supplier with 12 fresh and value-added operations in the United Kingdom, from Danish Crown. The transaction solidifies Pilgrim’s as a leading European food company, creating one of the largest integrated prepared foods businesses in the UK with a portfolio of brands and retail private label solutions.

The transaction, unanimously approved by Pilgrim’s Board of Directors and funded with cash on hand, values Tulip Limited at £290 million (or approximately $354 million based on a 1.22 exchange rate as of August 27, 2019). The purchase amount represents 5.4x implied expected EBITDA.

“We are pleased to strengthen our European foods platform with the acquisition of Tulip Limited, which positions Pilgrim’s as a leading global prepared foods player,” said Jayson Penn, Pilgrim’s global chief executive officer. “The transaction represents...

Mrs. Ressler's Food Products Acquires Emils Organics 

Sysco Acquires J. Kings Food Service Professionals

Sysco Corporation (NYSE:SYY), the leading global foodservice distribution company, today announced it has acquired J. Kings Food Service Professionals, a New York broadline distributor with approximately $150 million in annual sales.

J. Kings Food Service Professionals, headquartered in Holtsville, New York, was founded by John King more than 45 years ago. Today, the company has grown to one of the leading independent broadline distributors in the New York area, also servicing customers in Connecticut and New Jersey. The majority of the company’s customers are independent restaurant operators, but the company also serves institutional, retail and multi-unit customers.

“J. Kings is a well-respected, New York area broadline distributor, and we are happy to welcome them into the Sysco family of businesses,” said Greg Bertrand, Sysco’s executive vice president, U.S. foodservice operations. “As Sysco continues to focus on...

Aramark Acquires On-Demand Food Delivery Service, Good Uncle

Aramark (NYSE:ARMK), a global leader in food, facilities management and uniforms, today announced the acquisition of privately-held Good Uncle, an innovative, app-based on-demand food delivery service that brings freshly prepared, restaurant quality meals to conveniently located pick-up points around college campuses. The addition of this concierge service to the Aramark portfolio furthers the company’s commitment to advancing innovation through culinary-and technology-driven solutions that better serve customers and clients.

“We are pleased to welcome the Good Uncle team to the Aramark family. As consumer dining habits evolve, we’re continually looking for new ways to disrupt the marketplace with innovative services,” said Eric J. Foss, Aramark’s Chairman, President and CEO. “Good Uncle strengthens our ability to offer...

The Cheesecake Factory to Acquire Fox Restaurant Concepts and Remaining Interest in North Italia

The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated (NASDAQ: CAKE)today announced that it has entered into definitive agreements to acquire Fox Restaurant Concepts (“FRC”) and the remaining interest in North Italia, reinforcing its leadership position in experiential dining.

“Since making our initial minority investments in North Italia and Flower Child in 2016, we have not only helped fuel the growth of both brands, but also developed a deep relationship with Sam Fox at Fox Restaurant Concepts,” said David Overton, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated. “We realized the true potential of this relationship as we worked through the integration process for our planned acquisition of North Italia. It became evident that the combination of two of the most experiential and entrepreneurial restaurant companies could drive greater value as one organization.”

Overton continued, “In turn, we have decided to bring together North Italia and Fox Restaurant Concepts, including Flower Child, with The Cheesecake Factory to reinforce our leadership position in...

Hooters of America Acquired by Nord Bay Capital and TriArtisan Capital Advisors

Hooters of America, LLC (“HOA”, “Hooters” or the “Company”) announced today that Nord Bay Capital (“Nord Bay”) and its advisor TriArtisan Capital Advisors LLC (“TriArtisan”) have closed on a transaction to acquire HOA from H.I.G. Capital (“H.I.G.”), Chanticleer Holdings (NASDAQ: BURG) and other investors. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. As part of the transaction, the selling entities will each retain a stake in the Company.

Terry Marks, Chief Executive Officer, HOA commented: “The partnership with Nord Bay and TriArtisan comes at an ideal time for the company, bringing fresh partners with complementary skills and experience to support our next phase of growth to the benefit of...

Performance Food Group Company to Acquire Reinhart Foodservice

Performance Food Group Company (“PFG”) (NYSE: PFGC) today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Reinhart Foodservice, L.L.C (“Reinhart”) from Reyes Holdings, L.L.C. in a transaction valued at $2.0 billion, or approximately $1.7 billion net of an estimated tax benefit to PFG of approximately $265 million. With annual net sales of over $6 billion, Reinhart is the second largest privately held foodservice distributor in the U.S. and is headquartered in Rosemont, IL.

“We are excited to announce the strategic acquisition of Reinhart and welcome them to Performance Food Group,” said George Holm, PFG Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer. “I’ve known the Reyes family for nearly two decades, and...

Hain Celestial Completes Sale of Hain Pure Protein

The Hain Celestial Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: HAIN) ("Hain Celestial" or the "Company"), a leading organic and natural products company with operations in North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East providing consumers with A Healthier Way of Life™, today announced that, consistent with the Company's prior announcement on May 9, it has completed the sale of all of its equity interest in Hain Pure Protein Corporation, which includes the FreeBird™ and Empire® Kosher businesses, to Aterian Investment Partners for a purchase price of $80 million, subject to customary adjustments. Hain Celestial expects to use net proceeds from the sale to pay down debt...

FAT Brands Completes Acquisition of Elevation Burger

FAT (Fresh. Authentic. Tasty.) Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: FAT) (“FAT Brands” or the “Company”) announced that it has successfully completed the acquisition of Elevation Burger for $10 million which was funded through a combination of sellers’ notes and cash. With the acquisition of Elevation Burger, FAT Brands now franchises more than 400 restaurants around the world with annual system-wide sales exceeding $400 million.

Elevation Burger was originally conceived in 2002 by Hans Hess as a healthier burger offering. Delivering authentic, sustainably prepared food, Elevation Burger offers grass-fed, free-range options that are better for consumers and for the environment. Elevation Burger franchises 44 locations across the U.S. and internationally. Utilizing FAT Brands' vast expertise and resources, the acquisition is set to propel Elevation's forthcoming expansion, both globally and domestically...

United Premium Foods Purchases Amboy Group Out of Bankruptcy

The Board of Directors of United Premium Foods (“UPF”), a private investment group based in N.J., today announced the company has purchased the Amboy Group, a provider of quality meat and food products, out of bankruptcy. In addition to UPF’s acquisition of Amboy, Amboy Woodbridge Realty, an entity affiliated with UPF, acquired the real property and cold storage business.

“The acquisitions include a state-of-the-art meat processing and cold storage facility, as well as an extremely strong and loyal customer base,” said Jim Kwon, chairman and acting CEO, UPF. “We are confident that with additional working capital, supplemental management and a new operating team, we can improve operating efficiencies while growing the company’s market share and reach. This investment is affirmation of our belief in the strong fundamentals of the business and our confidence in the upside potential of this company...

Tyson Foods Completes Acquisition of Thai and European Businesses from BRF S.A.

Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE: TSN) announced today the successful completion of the acquisition of the Thai and European businesses from BRF S.A. The purchase includes four production facilities in Thailand, and one each in the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. These businesses build on the company’s growth strategy to expand offerings of value-added protein in global markets.

“The addition of this experienced and talented team combined with these businesses strengthens our capabilities and increases our reach to new markets. I’m glad to welcome them to the Tyson Foods family,” said Noel White, president and CEO of Tyson Foods. “We’re now strategically aligned to better serve customers in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, building on our global strategy.”

It’s estimated that approximately 90 percent of global protein consumption growth will occur outside the United States, with 60 percent of the volume growth coming from...

Perdue Premium Meat Company to Acquire Panorama Meats

The nation’s largest producer of grass-fed, organic beef to grow with support of new resources

Panorama Meats®, the nation’s largest producer of 100 percent grass-fed and grass-finished certified organic beef, today announced they were joining Perdue Premium Meat Company, Inc., an industry leader in sustainable agriculture and humane animal care. Panorama will be the most recent brand to join the Perdue Farms family of sustainable premium meat companies that include Niman Ranch®, Coleman Natural®, Prairie Grove® and Sioux-Preme® Packing Co. Panorama’s nearly 50 independent family ranchers raise U.S. born cattle and span seven states and one million acres of USDA Certified Organic grasslands in Northern California, Southern Oregon, Montana, South Dakota, Nebraska, Wisconsin, and Colorado.

“Perdue Premium Meat Company brings long-term stability and shared resources that will...

Announcement Regarding Proposed Merger of Asda and Sainsbury’s

The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has today published its Final Report on the proposed merger of Asda and Sainsbury’s, resulting in prohibition of the merger.

Despite the clear customer benefits of the proposed merger, as a result of the CMA’s findings, Asda, its parent Walmart and Sainsbury’s have mutually agreed to terminate the transaction.

Commenting on the proposed merger of Asda and Sainsbury’s, Judith McKenna, CEO of Walmart International, said:

“We have been clear from the beginning of the proposed merger about two things. Firstly, that retail is rapidly changing and standing still is not an option, and secondly that...

Americold Realty Trust Announces the Strategic Acquisition of Cloverleaf Cold Storage

Americold Realty Trust (NYSE: COLD) (the “Company” or “Americold”), the world’s largest publicly traded REIT focused on the ownership, operation and development of temperature-controlled warehouses, announced today that the Company has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire privately-held Chiller Holdco, LLC (“Cloverleaf Cold Storage” or “Cloverleaf”) from Cloverleaf management and an investor group led by private equity funds managed by Blackstone (NYSE: BX) for a purchase price of $1.24 billion (subject to customary adjustments). The closing of the acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to occur in the second quarter of 2019.

Founded in 1952 and based in Sioux City, Iowa, Cloverleaf is the fifth largest cold storage provider in the United States by refrigerated cubic feet and serves over 360 customers. The portfolio to be acquired consists of ...

Sysco Acquires J & M Wholesale Meats and Imperio Foods

Sysco Corporation (NYSE:SYY), the leading global foodservice distribution company, today announced it has acquired J & M Wholesale Meats and Imperio Foods, Inc., leading California distributors with approximately $44 million in combined annual sales.

J & M Wholesale Meats and Imperio Foods, sister companies based out of Modesto, California, operate throughout northern California and Oregon. J&M Meats, founded in 2003, is a foodservice distributor who specializes in center of the plate products, serving foodservice customers and small retail locations in the Hispanic segment. Imperio Foods was founded in 2014 and ...

Central Valley Meat Holding Company to Acquire Harris Farms’ Beef Operations

Harris Farms, Inc. (“Harris Farms”) Owner John Harris and Central Valley Meat Company, Inc. President and CEO Brian Coelho announced today that Central Valley Meat Holding Company will acquire Harris Ranch Beef Holding Company (“Harris Ranch Beef”), including its wholly owned subsidiaries, Harris Feeding Company and Harris Ranch Beef Company. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

“We have known and respected John Harris and Harris Ranch Beef for decades, and I am pleased to have this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to continue the business’ family-owned legacy and pursue its tremendous potential for growth here in the Central Valley,” said Mr. Coelho. “While Central Valley Meat Company and Harris Ranch Beef will continue to ...

OSI Group Acquires Rose Packing Company, Inc.

OSI Group is pleased to announce the acquisition of Rose Packing Company, Inc., a well-established, premier U.S. producer of pork products for leading foodservice and retail customers.

A fifth generation, family-owned and operated leader in the meat industry, Rose is headquartered in Barrington, Illinois, and operates a Chicago production facility with more than 700 employees.

“This transaction brings together two long-time leaders in the food industry, and we are excited to have Rose join the OSI Group,” said Kevin Scott, Senior Executive Vice President, OSI North America. “Strategically, the Rose acquisition complements our existing business and directly supports our growth strategy by providing ...

McDonald’s to Acquire Dynamic Yield

McDonald’s Corporation (MCD) and Dynamic Yield Ltd. today announced an agreement by which McDonald’s will acquire Dynamic Yield, a leader in personalization and decision logic technology. With this acquisition of Dynamic Yield, based in New York and Tel Aviv, McDonald’s builds on its significant technology investments for growth.

McDonald’s will utilize this decision technology to provide an even more personalized customer experience by varying outdoor digital Drive Thru menu displays to show food based on time of day, weather, current restaurant traffic and trending menu items. The decision technology can also ...

Kroger and Peak Rock Capital Announce Definitive Agreement for Purchase of Kroger's Turkey Hill

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) and Peak Rock Capital, a leading middle-market private equity firm based in Austin, Texas, today announced a definitive agreement for the sale of Kroger's Turkey Hill business to an affiliate of Peak Rock Capital.

As part of the sale agreement, the Peak Rock Capital affiliate will continue to operate the Turkey Hill business out of its large Conestoga, Penn., facility with its nearly 800 full-time, part-time and seasonal associates and under the same recognizable Turkey Hill brand.

"We believe this is the right step to ensure the Turkey Hill business can meet its full potential and continue to grow its successful ice cream and ...

Kroger and Inmar Finalize Strategic Relationship

Inmar and The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) today announced the completion of Inmar's acquisition of You Technology, LLC, a digital coupon and digital rebate publishing platform, from Kroger and the finalization of Inmar's long-term service agreement to provide digital coupon services to the Kroger family of stores.

Kroger's sale of YouTech to Inmar was for total consideration of $565 million, including $400 million of cash consideration received upon closing. Kroger intends to use the after-tax cash proceeds from the sale to reduce debt.

"The monetization of our investment in YouTech and long-term agreement with Inmar demonstrate how Kroger can create value in different ways ...

National Beef to Own Iowa Premium LLC

National Beef Packing Company, LLC, today announced that it has approved a transaction that will result in it owning 100 percent of the ownership interests in Iowa Premium, LLC, (IP). The transaction is subject to customary conditions, including the expiration of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act, and is expected to close in the second quarter of 2019.

Iowa Premium, located in Tama, Iowa employs over 800 people and processes approximately 1,100 head of Black Angus fed cattle per day. The company is well known for ...

Slyce Debuts Visual Search Solutions for Grocery Retailers

Over the last few years, visual search has become known as a tool to find celebrity fashion and hard-to-describe decor. Now the camera technology is ready for its next retail sector: Grocery. At the 2019 Shoptalk retail conference in Las Vegas, Slyce is debuting how visual search is capable of solving a host of problems for supermarket retailers and consumers.

Slyce, which currently powers visual search for 60 retailers, announced that multiple grocery retailers are licensing its mobile SDK to power a list-building experience in their apps. Using Slyce's "batch capture" mode, a consumer can build a list by scanning barcodes, product labels, or ...

Paulson & Co. Inc. and TriArtisan Capital Advisors LLC Acquire P.F. Chang's China Bistro

Paulson & Co. Inc. ("Paulson"), TriArtisan Capital Advisors LLC ("TriArtisan") and Centerbridge Partners, L.P. ("Centerbridge") today announced that they have closed a transaction in which Paulson and TriArtisan acquired P.F. Chang's China Bistro, Inc. ("P.F. Chang's" or the "Company") from Centerbridge.

Jim Bell, CEO of P.F. Chang's, said, "We want to thank Centerbridge Partners for their strong support of P.F. Chang's. We are fortunate to have a partnership with Paulson and TriArtisan which will allow us to implement a collaborative growth strategy. Paulson and TriArtisan bring financial strength and ...

Linear Logistics Acquires Preferred Freezer Services to Become #1 Temperature Controlled Logistics Co.

Lineage Logistics announced on Monday that they have signed a definitive agreement to acquire Preferred Freezer Services. The acquisition makes Lineage Logistics the largest refrigerated warehousing and logistics provider in North America, as well as global.

“We are thrilled to welcome Preferred into the Lineage family of companies,” said Greg Lehmkuhl, Lineage President and CEO. “Bringing their first-class management team, deep industry experience and network of strategically located facilities into our organization will enable us to provide best-in-class service offerings for customers worldwide...

Olymel Announces the Closing of its Vanier Plant in Quebec City 

Olymel L.P. is Canada's leader in the production, processing,  and distribution of pork and poultry meats. The company employs over 13,000 people and has production and processing facilities in Quebec, Alberta, New Brunswick, and Saskatchewan. Today, the management of Olymel L.P. is announcing its decision to cease operations at its Vanier plant in Quebec City. The decision will come into effect on May 10, according to the provisions of the Act respecting labour standards. Olymel is also announcing that the Vanier plant's activities, such as the production of cretons, bologna, pepperoni, and spaghetti sauce will now be carried out at its Blainville plant, north of Montreal, which will require an additional investment of $2 million and create 30 jobs.

President and CEO of Olymel, Réjean Nadeau, stated “Olymel's management made the difficult decision to close the Vanier plant in the general interest of ...

Hormel Sells Muscle Milk Maker to Pepsi

Hormel Foods Corporation announced today that it will be selling CytoSport, a protein product business, to PepsiCo, Inc.

CytoSport’s brand list consists of trademarks Muscle Milk and EVOLVE. Muscle Milk has long been distributed alongside PepsiCo products, a partnership which Hormel CEO Jim Snee says “puts them in a strong position to grow this dynamic business”.

Both Muscle Milk and EVOLVE product lines include protein shakes, bars, and powders, and the trademarks largely differentiate themselves using...

Tyson Foods to Acquire Thai and European Operations from BRF S.A.

Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE: TSN) today announced a definitive agreement to acquire the Thai and European operations of BRF S.A. The $340 million (USD) purchase includes four processing facilities in Thailand, one processing facility in the Netherlands and one processing facility in the United Kingdom. This deal builds on the company’s growth strategy to expand offerings of value-added protein in global markets.

“As noted when we acquired Keystone Foods on November 30, we believe some of our biggest growth opportunities are in value-added foods and international markets,” said Noel White, president and CEO of Tyson Foods. “In addition to domestic benefits, the Keystone acquisition provided us with ...

Sysco to Acquire Waugh Foods, Inc.

Sysco Corporation, the leading global foodservice distribution company, today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Waugh Foods, Inc., a leading Illinois broadline distributor with approximately $40 million in annual sales.

Waugh Foods Inc., headquartered in East Peoria, Ill. has been in business for 70 years. Joseph A. Waugh, Sr. founded Waugh Frozen Food Company in 1948, and in 1966, after additions to the company’s product lines, the name was changed to Waugh Foods, Inc. Today, the company provides a wide variety of products to customers throughout Central Illinois.

“Waugh Foods has a long, rich history in the Central Illinois area, which includes strong relationships with local independent operators,” said Greg Bertrand, executive vice president, U.S. foodservice operations. “We are excited to... 

Bojangles’ Becomes a Private Company with New Executive Appointments 

Bojangles’, Inc. (“Bojangles’” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: BOJA) announced that its all-cash acquisition by Durational Capital Management LP and The Jordan Company, L.P. is complete, effective today. The acquisition was previously announced on November 6, 2018.

Bojangles’ will operate as an independent, privately-held company and will remain based in Charlotte, N.C.

“We are pleased to have successfully completed this transaction in partnership with Bojangles’ and The Jordan Company,” said Eric Sobotka, Managing Partner at Durational Capital Management. “We are excited to begin working with ...

GrubMarket Continues its Sizzling Growth Across the West Coast with the Acquisition of Chasin Foods

rubMarket today announced it has completed the acquisition of Chasin Foods, a leading wholesale distributor of quality produce, dairy, meats, seafood, and provisions. Chasin Foods was formally an independent, family owned distributor with a portfolio of clients including markets, manufacturers, jobbers, schools, chain restaurants, single unit restaurants and large institutional accounts across the Southern California region. This acquisition follows in the footsteps of GrubMarket's recent acquisition of So Cal Farm Network last year, which has proven to be highly successful. Chasin Foods will now be able to leverage GrubMarket's robust produce supply chain network to quickly expand its offerings to even more ...

Stop & Shop to Acquire King Kullen Grocery Co.

Stop & Shop announced today it has agreed to acquire King Kullen Grocery Co., Inc. The agreement includes King Kullen’s 32 supermarkets, five Wild by Nature stores and the use of its corporate office located in Bethpage, N.Y.

“King Kullen is a well-respected grocery chain in the Long Island market that has an 88-year tradition of excellent customer service,” said Mark McGowan, President of Stop & Shop. “We look forward to bringing our quality, selection and value to more communities in Nassau and Suffolk Counties.”

The acquisition is currently expected to close during the first quarter of 2019, subject to ...

Applebee's Purchases 69 Restaurants In Franchise Transaction

Today, Applebee's Grill and Bar announced the closing of the transaction purchasing 69 restaurants in North and South Carolina. The restaurants will be operated under industry veteran and Applebee's chief operating officer, Kevin Carroll.

"Through the third quarter of 2018, Applebee's business performance has been the best it's been in more than a decade as we continue to lead the casual dining category," says John Cywinski, Applebee's brand president. "I'm pleased with this transaction and confident in our plans to evolve and selectively refine our restaurant portfolio. We are consistently reviewing our portfolio and making strategic decisions to better position our brand for the future."

Applebee's same-restaurant sales increased 7.7 percent in the third quarter, a majority of which was driven by traffic, resulting in a third quarter year-to-date comp sales increase of... 

Black Shamrock Partners Completes Sale of Smashburger to Jollibee Foods Corporation

Global Restaurant Group Buys Full Control from BSP

Black Shamrock Partners (BSP), formerly Consumer Concept Group & Affiliates, today announced that Jollibee Foods Corporation (PSE: JFC), Asia's largest food service company, has acquired the remaining 15 percent of Smashburger, the Denver-based 'better burger' concept, bringing Jollibee full ownership of the brand.

In 2015, Smashburger entered into a strategic partnership with Jollibee Foods Corporation to sell 40 percent of the Company at a $335M USD value ...

Empire Company Completes Purchase of Farm Boy - Ontario's Best-in-Class Food Retailer

Empire Company Limited ("Empire" or the "Company") (TSX: EMP.A) announced today that it has completed its purchase of Farm Boy, one of the most exciting, fastest growing and successful food retailers in the country. All closing conditions, including receipt of a no-action letter from the Competition Bureau, have been satisfied.

"We are thrilled to officially team up with Farm Boy," said Michael Medline, President and CEO of Empire. "They have an incredible brand, great stores and customer service, and a superb leadership team. Founder and co-CEO Jean-Louis Bellemare and co–CEO Jeff York will remain investors in the company and will continue in their roles for the long term ...

Inspire Brands Completes Acquisition of Sonic Corp.

Inspire Brands, Inc. today announced the completion of its $2.3 billion acquisition of Sonic Corp.

With the acquisition of Sonic, Inspire now encompasses more than 8,300 restaurants and generates annual systemwide sales in excess of $12 billion, making it the fifth-largest restaurant company in the United States. In addition to Sonic, Inspire’s restaurant portfolio includes Arby’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Rusty Taco.

“We are thrilled to officially welcome Sonic to the Inspire family,” said Paul Brown, Chief Executive Officer of Inspire Brands. “Sonic and its franchisees have created one of the most successful and distinctive brands in the restaurant industry ...

C&S Wholesale Grocers to Acquire Olean Wholesale Grocery Cooperative, Inc.

C&S Wholesale Grocers, Inc. announced today that it has signed an agreement to acquire Olean Wholesale Grocery Cooperative, Inc. based in Olean, NY. The sale is expected to close in early 2019.

Olean Wholesale, a New York cooperative corporation founded in 1922, is a full-service grocery wholesaler with a variety of food products as well as non-food, household, and personal care items. The company services over 270 independent food retail and convenience stores throughout New York, Pennsylvania, and Northeast Ohio. Olean Wholesale has built its business upon their comprehensive product offerings, personalized customer service, and collaborative partnerships with independent retailers and manufacturers. Current CEO and President, Robert Ketchner, will continue to manage the day-to-day operations, ensuring consistency for the employees, customers, and vendors ...