Sauer Brands acquires Chicago Custom Foods in US

US-based seasonings and spices maker Sauer Brands has acquired Chicago-based Chicago Custom Foods (CCF).

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

Sauer Brands executive chairman Bill Lovette said: “CCF has done a tremendous job growing the Kernel Season’s brand, creating a culture of innovation and leveraging an impressive degree of merchandising savvy that we can learn from.

“We are excited about adding another strong brand to our lineup and partnering with Jason and his team to grow the business through supply chain efficiencies and other synergies.”

Since CCF introduced Kernel Season’s in 2000, the company has expanded its branded popcorn seasonings portfolio with brands such as Tasty Shakes oatmeal mix-ins and Veggie Season’s vegetable seasonings.

It is also planning to launch a new truffle-flavoured popcorn seasoning later this year.

Sauer Brands is a portfolio company of North Carolina-based private equity firm Falfurrias Capital Partners, which was established in 2006.

With the completion of the deal, Sauer Brands, a portfolio company of private equity firm Falfurrias Capital Partners, will operate CCF as a separate business entity.

CCF CEO Jason Roy said: “I couldn’t be prouder of the results our team has achieved in extending our market leadership in popcorn seasonings and developing new offerings for the hot cereal and fresh produce categories.

“We are excited about joining the Sauer Brands family and look forward to working with Bill and Martin to accelerate growth for all of our brands.”

CCF products are currently retailed through more than 30,000 distribution points across the US, as well as international markets.