Nestlé sells pasta producer
Joseph’s Pasta Co., located in Massachusetts, was purchased by Nestlé in 2006. The acquired business specializes in manufacturing frozen stuffed pasta products for foodservice clients.
Expansion opportunity
Henk Hartong, senior managing partner of Brynwood Partners, said the Joseph’s Pasta Co. acquisition will enable the company to expand its reach and product offerings.
"We are excited about the opportunity to accelerate innovation and explore new distribution channels,” he said. “Joseph's manufactures delicious and unique products in its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.”
Joseph’s Pasta Co. specializes in producing premium sauces and pastas; the range includes stuffed cannelloni, ravioli, gnocchi, manicotti and others. The firm employs more than 300 staffers.
Frozen food experience
The acquisition of Joseph’s Pasta Co. is not Brynwood Partners’ first foray into the frozen food space. The company previously held Richeleiu Foods Inc., a private-label maker of frozen pizza and other edibles, which it divested in 2010.
"We had a great deal of success with Richelieu Foods in the frozen food space in both the retail and foodservice channels," Hartong said. "We hope to be able to utilize some of that experience in the Joseph's investment."
Brynwood’s other current food holdings include DeMet’s Candy Co., Back to Nature Foods Co., Pearson Candy Co., and Lightlife Foods Inc. In addition, its prior firms in the food industry include Sun Country Foods Inc., Balance Bar Co., Lincoln Snacks Co., and Signature Snacks Co.
Terms of Brynwood Partners' acquisition of Joseph's Pasta Co. were not disclosed.
