Highlander Partners acquires Kernel Season’s from VMG Partners

US-based private investment firm Highlander Partners has acquired Chicago Custom Foods doing business as Kernel Season’s from VMG Partners and Brian Taylor, the founder of the company.

Financial details of the deal have not been disclosed by both the companies.

Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Kernel Season’s produces a wide range of popcorn seasonings ranging from simple butter and white cheddar to garlic parmesan and cheesy caramel corn.

It also offers popcorn oils and drizzles.

Kernel Season’s products are currently distributed to more than 22,000 retailers, including mass merchants, grocery, and speciality stores located in North America as well as at other locations across the globe.

Kernel Season’s CEO Scott Lerner said: “We are excited about the new partnership with Highlander and will benefit from their strong food industry expertise.

“The management team is energised and our pipeline is full of new opportunities.

“Our brand has exceptional consumer awareness and we are well positioned to continue our historical success in the foreseeable future.”

Based in Dallas, US, the Highlander Partners primarily focuses on making direct and control investments in manufacturing, consumer products, as well as food and beverage products.

Highlander Partners president and managing partner Jeff Hull said: “This acquisition further emphasises Highlander’s focus on investing in high-quality food companies and the CPG sector in general.

“Kernel Season’s is the number one popcorn-seasoning brand in the US and has tremendous growth opportunities driven by innovation, new customer penetration, and increased consumer awareness.”